Solar Occultation Imaging of Dust in the Martian Atmosphere

Abstract

As part of the ExoMars space programme, the 2016 Trace Gas Orbiter mission was announced. The Martian Atmospheric Trace Molecule Occultation Spectrometer (MATMOS) was a proposed Fourier transform spectrometer and solar imager concept pair that would provide for trace gas detection and aerosol observation of the Martian atmosphere. Martian aerosols – namely CO2 crystals, water-ice crystals, and dust – have been observed during past missions; however, observations have failed to fully characterize their physical and optical properties.

This thesis presents an analysis of the ability of the proposed imager to determine the pointing of the spacecraft independent of the spectrometer. Furthermore, proof of concept is presenting showing the ability to, in laboratory conditions, characterize the precision and stability of the imager. Finally, window regions in the transmittance spectrum of the Martian atmosphere are determined simulating the Martian atmosphere and viewing geometry.