Integration into the JUICE Mission

WorldWide WCE via the JUICE programme: The JUICE programme, led by the European Space Agency (ESA), aims to observe and study Jupiter’s icy moons, namely Ganymede, Europa and Callisto. These moons are of great interest due to their potential to host oceans of liquid water beneath their icy surfaces, making them ideal candidates to study the conditions necessary for life. The JUICE spacecraft, launched aboard the Ariane 5 rocket, is embarking on a remarkable journey to Jupiter spanning more than seven years.

The CMM Connector on the Mass Spectrometer: Inside the JUICE spacecraft, the WorldWide WCE CMM Connector Series 200 plays a vital role in the mass spectrometry system. The mass spectrometer is a sophisticated instrument used to analyze the composition of gases, ions, and solid particles. By integrating the CMM Connector into the mass spectrometer, the JUICE program benefits from the connector’s exceptional capabilities, previously demonstrated on the ExoMars mission.

Main Benefits of the CMM Connector:

1. Miniaturization: The CMM connector offers a compact design, ensuring significant weight and space savings in electronic modules. This feature is especially crucial in space missions where every gram and cubic centimeter counts. By using the CMM connector, the mass spectrometry system can be efficiently integrated into the JUICE spacecraft without compromising other scientific instruments or mission objectives.
2. Oxygen-Free Insulator: The CMM connector incorporates an oxygen-free insulator, a critical attribute for space applications. This insulator prevents the release of volatile substances when exposed to vacuum or extreme temperatures, a phenomenon known as “outgassing.” Outgassing could contaminate optical or sensitive instruments, putting scientific measurements at risk. The oxygen-free insulator ensures a clean and stable environment inside the mass spectrometer, mitigating the risks associated with outgassing.
3. Superior Reliability: Reliability is critical in space missions, considering the extreme conditions and long durations involved. Renowned for its outstanding reliability, the CMM connector maintains its electrical and mechanical performance even under extreme temperatures, radiation, and vibrations during the JUICE mission. Its rugged construction withstands the vibrations and mechanical stresses experienced during spacecraft launch and subsequent travel through space. Engineers can trust that the connector will consistently provide secure connections, minimizing the chances of mission-critical failures.

The integration of the WorldWide WCE CMM connector into the JUICE mass spectrometry system highlights its value as a miniaturized yet reliable solution for the space industry.