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Micro Devices Laboratory
The Micro Devices Lab is home to the facilities that are inventing ever smaller devices and components that are allowing our spacecraft to shrink in size while growing in capability. The presenting
engineer for this part of the tour was Paula Grunthaner
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| Ultraviolet chip/Black Eyed Susan experiment |
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While it may look like a child's toy, this small device may someday play a critical role in Solar System exploration.
A group of these devices, or pods, can be collected together to form a new type of instrument called a sensor web. The individual pods contain both sensors that collect information from the
surrounding environment and communication chips that transmit the data to other pods. The data finally arrives at a primary pod where it is then transmitted to the internet or an overhead satellite.
Sensor webs can be deployed from spacecraft to the surface of another planet, providing scientists here on Earth with a map of that planet's environmental factors, such as trace gases possibly
created by microorganisms living below the surface. This capability will help investigators evaluate environmental conditions and determine if life is possible, or has ever been possible, on a planet.
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Sensor webs may also be used on Earth. Sensor webs provide the opportunity for planetary scientists and biologists to have a continual virtual
presence in an area, greatly aiding the study and monitoring of ecosystems. Precision environmental measurements in hard to reach environments, such as steep canyon walls or ocean floors will also be possible.
+ Next Location (In-Situ Instruments Laboratory)
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