Mission Objectives

• To find out the presence of life-forms on Europa

• To find out if Europa is able to sustain life

Why are we looking at Europa?

• Europa’s atmosphere contains oxygen

• Scientists predicted that water may be found beneath the icy-crust surface

What are we finding for?

• The structure of Europa• The geological features of Europa• Primitive extraterrestrial life

(cryophiles) in the ice-oceans of Europa

Melting Probe

Head

Body

Hydrobot

Spacecraft

Technologies

• Energy source:– Radioisotope thermoelectric generator

• Imaging:– Imaging Science Subsystem– Radio Detection and Ranging

Instrument (RADAR)

Mission Process

• The spacecraft will be launched from a space shuttle orbiting Earth towards the direction of Europa.

• As it enters the atmosphere of Europa, the parachute and landing rockets will be activated to slow it down.

Mission Process

• As it begins to reach the ground, the Rover will be detached from the main chassis.

• The tip will crash and embed itself into the surface.

Mission Process

• The “Melting Probe” (tip) will begin to melt its way through the surface of Europa.

• Once it reaches the water, the hydrobot will be activated.

Mission Process

• Once the hydrobot is activated, it will begin its exploration of the waters.

• The data and pictures taken will be transmitted back to Earth as well.

Mission Process

• The Rover will begin its journey over the surfaces of Europa.

• It will analyze and take detailed pictures of the surface, and transmit them back to Earth.

Mission Cost and Duration

• This mission to Europa will cost an approximate value of USD 850 million

• The duration of the project is estimated to be around 6 years, from building to launch.