An Instrument for Measuring Ion Composition of the Upper Atmosphere

An instrument which is well suited for use in rocket and satellite work and is capable of measuring the ion composition of the upper atmosphere is described. The theory of operation of a Paul-type mass spectrometer is presented. A system consisting of a Paul mass spectrometer and an electron-multiplier type detector, capable of measuring ion composition, is then described. The electronic system, which produces the RF and dc potentials required by the Paul mass spectrometer and measures the current output of the electron multiplier is described.