Analysis of the Pioneer Venus Large Probe Neutral Mass Spectrometer Data Yields New Insights into the Composition of Venus’ Atmosphere

We present a new analysis of mass spectral data obtained by the Pioneer Venus (PV) Large Probe Neutral Mass Spectrometer (LNMS). To analyze the LNMS data, we constructed an analytical model that accounts for spectrometer performance at each altitude, provides CO2 abundances in units of density (kg/m3), and retains the resolving power of the LNMS through use of a targeted data-fitting routine. Our results provide new insights into the composition of Venus’ atmosphere and show that densities for CO2 increase towards the surface, which is suggestive of surface outgassing. Additionally, the data reveal partial obstructions of the LNMS inlet at <17 km, which is an likely important consideration for future missions. Re-analysis of the LNMS data may assist in revealing the past, present and/or future habitability of Venus’ clouds.