2019/07/25 by D. Bockelée–Morvan, Bockelée-Morvan, D., G. Filacchione +70
Engineering · Physics and Astronomy · #Astro and Planetary Science #Astrophysics and Star Formation Studies #Earth and Planetary Astrophysics (astro-ph.EP) #FOS: Physical sciences #Instrumentation and Methods for Astrophysics (astro-ph.IM) #Nuclear physics research studies #Spacecraft and Cryogenic Technologies #Stellar, planetary, and galactic studies
paper · pdf · doi:10.48550/arxiv.1907.11081
openalex publication_date 2019/07/25 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/28
This white paper proposes that AMBITION, a Comet Nucleus Sample Return\nmission, be a cornerstone of ESA's Voyage 2050 programme. We summarise some of\nthe most important questions still open in cometary science after the successes\nof the Rosetta mission, many of which require sample analysis using techniques\nthat are only possible in laboratories on Earth. We then summarise\nmeasurements, instrumentation and mission scenarios that can address these\nquestions, with a recommendation that ESA select an ambitious cryogenic sample\nreturn mission. Rendezvous missions to Main Belt comets and Centaurs are\ncompelling cases for M-class missions, expanding our knowledge by exploring new\nclasses of comets. AMBITION would engage a wide community, drawing expertise\nfrom a vast range of disciplines within planetary science and astrophysics.\nWith AMBITION, Europe will continue its leadership in the exploration of the\nmost primitive Solar System bodies.\n