In March 2018, experts from ESA and IROC Technologies came to perform tests in VESPER (Very energetic Electron facility for Space Planetary Exploration missions in harsh Radiative environments), which is part of CLEAR (CERN Linear Electron Accelerator for Research). VESPER was used to evaluate the effects of high-energy electrons on state-of-the art electronics considered for flying on the JUICE (JUpiter ICy moons Explorer) mission. The outcome will help the JUICE project optimise spacecraft design and anticipate/ mitigate Jupiter radiation impact on mission performances.

“The tests performed at CERN reinforce our planetary exploration ambitions.”

Giuseppe Sarri, ESA JUICE Project Manager