Shape Design by Finite Element Analysis of CNT Carpets as Microparticle Capture Media for a Comet Sample Return

Abstract

Capturing and analyzing cometary coma dust leads to elucidate the origin of the solar system. JAXA/ISAS is currently developing core technology for sample return of microparticles ejected at a lower velocity after rendezvous with a cometary nucleus. “Carbon Nanotube (CNT) carpets” are an effective capture medium for such a purpose. In this paper, the effect of capture performance in shape designing of the CNT carpets was evaluated using computer simulations. Based on simulation results, design guideline of CNT carpets was proposed to use in comet rendezvous sample return missions.