Development of MEMS-Based Inertial Gravimetry for Planetary Exploration

Introduction: Gravimetry, the measurement of slight variations in gravitational acceleration, can be used to infer density distributions in a planet’s subsurface. While surface-based surveys are common on Earth, extraterrestrial surveys are typically confined to orbital platforms. This restricts the resolution of the data and inhibits the study of crustal structure at a finer scale, representing a need for data collected at the surface or near surface. Recently, the first surface gravity traverse on Mars was performed using the microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) engineering accelerometers on the Curiosity rover [1]. This study highlighted the potential of MEMS devices for planetary exploration. Additionally, such devices are more robust and have lower masses, costs, and power requirements than traditional gravimeters, adding to their suitability for planetary applications. NASA has developed an instrument that utilizes tri-axial MEMS accelerometers contained within an inertial measurement unit to conduct gravity measurements. Here, we discuss a project that aims to support wider efforts to develop MEMS gravimeters for planetary exploration [2,3].