National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
Location
Pasadena, CA | United States
Job description
Description
Intense magnetospheric electron and ion bombardment of Jovian and Saturnian icy satellites such as Europa and Iapetus results in highly contrasting surface geology on these bodies. For example, Europa’s trailing hemisphere receives far more electron and ion irradiation than the leading hemisphere and these icy surfaces are heavily radiation processed. Recent studies have shown that upon ultraviolet radiation [1,2] electrons are generated within these ices containing organics impurities. The fate of electrons that are released into the ices is under investigation, which forms the theme of this research opportunity.
The NPP colleague will focus on understanding both short-term (nanosecond time scale) and long-term (seconds to days) properties of electrons released through ionization process into the water ices at conditions relevant to outer solar system icy moons. These studies will enable a better understanding of surface processes of icy moons such as Europa and Enceladus, both of which are targets of next flagship missions.
[1] Gudipati, M.S.; Matrix-Isolation in Cryogenic Water Ices: Facile Generation, Storage and Optical Spectroscopy of Aromatic Radical Cations. JPhysChem A. 108(2004)4412.
[2] Gudipati, M.S., Allamandola, L.J.; Unusual stability of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon radical cations in amorphous water ices up to 120 K: Astronomical implications. ApJ. 638(2006)286.
Location:
Jet Propulsion Laboratory
Pasadena, California
Applications with citizens from Designated Countries will not be accepted at this time, unless they are Legal Permanent Residents of the United States. A complete list of Designated Countries can be found at: .
Eligibility is currently open to:
This opportunity may require the following: 1- Mandatory drug testing; 2-Random drug testing; 3- Testing prior to initiation of fellowship appointment.
Eligibility Requirements
Job tags
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