Title :
Single Point Gradiometer for Planetary Applications
Author :
Mesa, Jose Luis ; Diaz Michelena, Marina ; Ciudad, David ; Schoenthal, Whitney ; McHenry, Michael E. ; Maicas, Marco ; Aroca, Claudio
Author_Institution :
Inst. Nac. de Tcnica Aerosp., Torrejn de Ardoz, Spain
Abstract :
We have designed and fabricated a microelectromechanical device, based on the alternating field gradient concept, to measure surface magnetic field gradient on planets. Its sensitivity is 4 10-4 T/m, which is appropriate for magnetite outcrops and areas with rocks formed at different stages recording geomagnetic field reversals. We present the results obtained with three different prototypes.
Keywords :
geomagnetic variations; geophysical equipment; geophysical techniques; magnetometers; micromechanical devices; rock magnetism; alternating field gradient concept; geomagnetic field reversals; magnetite outcrops; microelectromechanical device; planetary applications; single point gradiometer; surface magnetic field gradient; Amorphous magnetic materials; Magnetic field measurement; Magnetic fields; Magnetic moments; Magnetometers; Magnetosphere; Prototypes; Gradient methods; Magnetic Instrument; Magnetic instruments; Micro-Electro-Mechanical-System (MEMS); Microsensors; gradient methods; microelectromechanical system; microsensors;
Journal_Title :
Magnetics Letters, IEEE
DOI :
10.1109/LMAG.2015.2411576
