[P-CG18] Future missions and instrumentation for space and planetary science

[PCG18-P03] Optimizing Sensor-Lander Distance for Lunar Vector Magnetometer in Lunar Geological Exploration Missions

*Pei-Chen Chang¹, Ping-Yu Chang¹, HENG-JE LU¹, Ya-Hui Yang¹ (1.National Central University)

Keywords:lunar, planetary magnetic field

We are developing a lunar vector magnetometer for use in exploring lunar geological structures during lunar missions. The instrument consists of three three-axis fluxgate magnetometer sensors mounted on an extendable boom, with an appropriate distance maintained between them. Our study focuses on the crucial role of sensor-lander distance in minimizing interference from the lunar lander's own components, such as batteries and motors, on the weak magnetic field on the lunar surface. Through experiments and simulations, we have determined the minimum distance necessary for a sufficient difference in data received by the sensors to facilitate subtraction of interference during the mission.