NSSDCA ID: 1966-017A-03
Mission Name: Cosmos 111The X-Ray Detector Experiment was designed to use flourescent radiation from the lunar surface to constrain the composition of the regolith. The detectors were soft X-ray photon counters. Elements such as Mg, Al, Si, S, Ca, Ti, and Fe in the upper 1 mm of the lunar surface emit soft x-rays in the energy range 1-8 keV as a result of excitation by solar x-rays. Detection of these emissions gives an energy spectrum which allows an estimate of the quantities of these elements in the uppermost surface.
Questions and comments about this experiment can be directed to: Dr. David R. Williams
Name | Role | Original Affiliation | |
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Dr. S. L. Mandel'shtam | General Contact |