In-Situ X-Ray Imaging Systemand X-Ray Fluorescence for Planetary Science

To answer the questions such as how have the myriad chemical and physical processes that shaped the solar system operated, interacted, and evolved over time? from ldquo;Vision and Voyages for Planetary Science in the Decade 2013-2022rdquo; by National Research Council, we propose to develop a compact, low-power, in-situ X-ray imaging and X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) instrument called Tomo-XRF probe to investigate the ice/rock internal element distribution and structure critical properties, such as density, porosity, crack, liquid distribution and flowing path, etc. nbsp;In this Phase II project, a prototype Tomo-XRF probe will be built with cutting edge X-ray components, innovative system configuration, and a novel method for data processing.nbsp; This whole prototype system would be expected to be less than 10 pounds with a total size as a shoe box.nbsp; The sample could be either ice or rock.nbsp; The Tomo-XRF probe has a significant potential for NASArsquo;s New Frontiers and Discovery missions cross most planetary bodies to provide high quality internal structure and element distribution information.To in-situ investigate the rock/ice sample prior to sample return could significantly improve the NASA spacecraft mission efficiency and expand our knowledge of the origin, formation, structure, etc. of the substances of the planetary bodies.This proposed Tomo-XRF probe also has a great potential for geological survey, petroleum, subsurface thermal resource, and mining exploration.nbsp; It can also be used at the production field of advanced manufacturing to provide critical 3D structure and element distribution information of the parts for quality assurance.nbsp; The in-situ results can be used as feedback to optimize/adjust the production process for significantly improving the production throughput and quality control.nbsp;nbsp;