Europa Clipper Magnetometer
Europa Clipper team deploys Magnetometer Boom | |
| Operator | NASA |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Jet Propulsion Laboratory |
| Instrument type | Magnetometer |
| Function | Measuring magnetic field to characterize subsurface features |
| Mission duration | Cruise: 3-6 years Science phase: ≥ 3 years |
| Properties | |
| Dimensions | 8.5 m (length, fully deployed) |
| Host spacecraft | |
| Spacecraft | Europa Clipper |
| Operator | NASA |
| Launch date | October 14, 2024, 16:06:00 UTC (12:06 p.m. EDT) |
| Rocket | Falcon Heavy |
| Launch site | Kennedy Space Center |
The Europa Clipper Magnetometer (ECM) is a spacecraft magnetometer aboard the planned Europa Clipper mission. It will be used to precisely measure Europa's magnetic field during consecutive fly-bys, allowing scientists to potentially confirm the existence of Europa's hypothesised subsurface ocean. If this ocean exists, the instrument will be able to determine its depth and salinity, as well as the thickness of the moon's icy shell.
The magnetometer team is led by Margaret Kivelson, with Xianzhe Jia serving as deputy team leader.