Multiple-composition hyperthermal atomic beams formed by a laser-induced plasma for planetary environmental studies

A multiple-composition beam with a velocity of 8 km s⁻¹ was formed using a laser detonation source in order to simulate the physical and chemical effects of neutral gas collisions on a material in the sub-low earth orbit (LEO). A premixed target gas was applied in the laser detonation beam technique. It was found that atoms of different masses, O and Ar for Ar + O₂ target gas, are accelerated to similar velocities, i.e. different translational energies. Promotion of O₂ decomposition is confirmed by using a mixed gas target. It is concluded that the multiple-composition beam obtained using a mixed target gas is suitable for simulating a neutral gas environment in the sub-LEO region. (paper)