The first samples of the gamma and neutron spectrometer were produced by the Space Research Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences
MOSCOW, November 6. /tass/. Space Research Institute (ICI) RAS has produced the first samples of gamma- and neutron spectrometer (LGNS) for exploration of the Moon from orbit and is working on them. This was reported to TASS by Igor Mitrofanov, head of the Department of Nuclear Planetology of the ICI.
"Full-scale and thermal prototypes of the device in order to do the first tests and the first testing have already been manufactured and sent to the enterprise, now we are testing optimal operating modes with a technological sample in the ICI," Mitrofanov noted.
According to the scientist, it is too early to produce a flight sample of the device that will be installed on the Luna-26 spacecraft.
Earlier, Mitrofanov told TASS that the installation of the device on the Luna-26 orbiter will allow scanning almost the entire surface of the Earth's natural satellite, because it will fly over almost all of its areas. According to the scientist, the device being developed at ICI will measure gamma radiation and neutron flux, a general averaged map will be compiled from the accumulated gamma radiation, determining the elemental composition and amount of volatile substances on the Moon.
The first lunar mission in the history of modern Russia is planned for 2022 (Luna-25), the Luna-26 mission is to be launched in 2024, Luna-27 in 2025, Luna-28 in 2027-2028.
