LUNAR POLAR CRATER EXPLORATION : ELECTRICAL GROUNDING IN AN ELECTRON CLOUD

Introduction: Exploration of the lunar polar regions is of interest due to the possible stores of water ice. A new model validates the possibility of a pure electron plasma populating shadowed craters on the Moon. Formed in the wake of the solar wind as it flows over a topographic obstacle, this electron cloud region of negative space charge is unlike any familiar terrestrial environment. In the context of exploration, electrical grounding in a region devoid of positive charges can be potentially problematic for EVA equipment such as astronaut suits and rovers. We present new results pertaining to the lunar polar environment, and a preliminary study of its impact on future exploration missions.