NSSDCA ID: 1973-053A-02
Mission Name: Mars 7This experiment utilized a Bennett radio-frequency mass analyzer mounted on the Mars 6 entry capsule, and was flown to determine the chemical composition of the Martian atmosphere. The mass spectrometer used a three-stage 2-7 analyzer cycle and was pumped down to high vacuum (approximately 1.1 E-9 torr) by an ion magnetic pump. Using continuous scan, the mass range measured extended from 12 to 48 u, and the time taken for one mass spectra was 4 sec. The resolution at half-peak amplitude was between 20 and 25. The mass spectrometer was equipped with a system for drawing the gas in and pumping it out, so that the instrument could operate with extended pressures in the range 0.5 to 6.0 torr.
In addition to the analyzer the experiment components included a high-voltage power supply, ion magnetic pump, magnet, inlet valve and diaphragm, scan generator, power supply, electrometer, electrometer amplifier, and encoder. The pressure drop between the analyzer and the Martian atmosphere was produced by throttling the gas flow through the inlet diaphragm aperture of 4 to 5 micrometers.
Five hours before the capsule entry into the Mar's atmosphere, the power was supplied to the ion magnetic pump, and then 1 min before the main parachute opened the mass spectrometer was energized. No spectra were transmitted, because after the landing the radio communication with the entry capsule ceased. From the measured pump current, which showed unexpected variations during the experiment, some conclusions were drawn regarding the composition of the Martian atmosphere.
Questions and comments about this experiment can be directed to: Dr. David R. Williams
Name | Role | Original Affiliation | |
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Dr. V. G. Istomin | Principal Investigator | Institut Kosmicheskich Issledovaniya (IKI) |