| Project Detail |
Magnetized rocks hold answers to fundamental questions about the formation and evolution of terrestrial planets. However, retrieving this information is far from trivial. Currently, there are two approaches to tackle this. One is through processing of spacecraft magnetic field measurements and the other one is through laboratory measurements of planetary samples. The first aim of this project is to develop a novel mathematical technique that will allow the extraction of magnetization information both from spacecraft measurements and laboratory samples. The second aim is to apply this methodology to constrain the evolution of the terrestrial and Martian magnetic fields over geological times. This has important implications concerning the planets’ evolution of their thermal state, composition, atmosphere, climate and ultimately of their habitability over geological times. This project will strengthen the position of Europe in space research as it will increase the benefits of space missions such as the ongoing ESA mission Swarm and the future sequence of Mars sample return missions, for which a statement of intent to collaborate has been recently signed between ESA and NASA. Moreover, this project will allow the transfer of expertise concerning the use of a SQUID magnetic microscope, from the US (MIT, the Partner Organization) to Europe (IPGP, the Beneficiary). This laboratory instrument, currently being installed at IPGP, is the first one to be installed in a European lab. This project will allow me to complement my experience in the study of the lithospheric magnetic fields of Earth and Mars using satellite measurements with training in ultra-high sensitivity laboratory paleomagnetic measurements. My solid background in mathematics, signal processing and planetary magnetism, the world-leading expertise of the supervisors and the research excellence of the host institutes will enable a successful outcome for the project and a broad dissemination of its results. |
