NSSDCA ID: 1959-014A-02
Mission Name: Luna 2The Geiger Counter carried on Luna 2 had the primary scientific objective of determining the electron spectrum of the outer radiation belt. The instrument consisted of three STS-5 gas-discharge counters mounted on the outside of the hermetically sealed container. The stainless steel walls of the counters had an areal density of 0.05 g per square cm. They were covered in a 0.02 cm thickness of aluminum and were contained in screens composed of a 9.3 cm thickness of lead and a 0.1 cm thickness of aluminum. The screens had window openings to allow electrons to pass through. The window in the screen of the first counter had an area of 0.28 square cm, the second counter window was 1.6 square cm in area, and was covered by a 0.02 cm thick copper plate. The third counter window was also 1.6 square cm in area, covered by 0.05 cm thick copper. The thicknesses and materials were chosen to allow electrons of energies exceeding 350, 650, and 1100 Kev, respectively, to enter. Power to the three counters was supplied by a 360 V battery.
Questions and comments about this experiment can be directed to: Dr. David R. Williams
Name | Role | Original Affiliation | |
---|---|---|---|
Dr. Yuri I. Logachev | Principal Investigator | Moscow State University |