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The possible contamination of JupiterThe Galileo probe, though at present its future is uncertain, would, if not sterilized, represent a good chance of contaminating Jupiter. Most scientists opposed to sterilizing the probe argue that to order the probe sterilized would be the death of the project, since sterilization would entail a reconstruction of the probe, and there are not enough funds to accomplish this. These scientists, however, are ignoring a relatively simple and inexpensive alternative to the traditional heat sterilization method. The main threat of contamination comes from Galileo's exterior surfaces: the shell of the probe and its parachute. The probe innermost components would not represent a threat since the probe is sealed. In light of the fact that only the exterior of Galileo would have to be sterilized, heat would not have to be used as a method of sterilization. Instead, various gas mixtures could be sprayed entirely over the probe and its parachute, gases which would kill any and all bacteria. This idea is more thoroughly examined.
Document ID
19890009012
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Garcia, Joe (NASA Ames Research Center Moffett Field, CA, United States)
Date Acquired
September 5, 2013
Publication Date
September 1, 1988
Publication Information
Publication: NASA Ames Summer High School Apprenticeship Research Program: 1986 Research Papers
Subject Category
Lunar And Planetary Exploration
Accession Number
89N18383
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.

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