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Mars-XRD Prototype


Date: 28 October 2010
Depicts: Part of the Mars-XRD prototype including the isotopic source, sample holder and detectors
Copyright: ESA

The photo shows part of the MARS-XRD prototype including the radioisotope source (55Fe), sample holder and detectors.

Laboratory XRDs are commonly equipped with a tube to generate X-rays. However, Mars-XRD will use an X-ray isotopic source (55Fe). The use of a self-emitting X-ray source will save power which, for planetary exploration purposes, is a rather crucial issue. This concept was successfully tested with an ESA-funded prototype built in 2006-2007.

Last Update: 1 September 2019
20-Jan-2026 21:26 UT

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