ICE-WORLDS: Ice Particle Accelerator with High-Resolution Mass Detectors for the Exploration of Chemical Compositions and Biosignatures of Water Worlds in Space

• Applicant: Professor Dr. Bernd Abel
• Subject Area: Astrophysics and Astronomy ; Physical Chemistry of Molecules, Liquids and Interfaces, Biophysical Chemistry
• Term: since 2024
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 543745830

This international project aims to improve our understanding of planets or moons of planets with water or ice deposits outside Earth by providing essential tools and technologies and conducting analogue laboratory experiments for the interpretation of data from future and past space missions. The initiative develops and uses state-of-the-art technology, including a novel ice particle accelerator and high-resolution mass analyzers with resolutions of up to R=50,000. The central research question revolves around deciphering the complex chemical composition of oceans, for example under the ice sheet of Enceladus, and exploring their potential conditions for life and chemical evolution. Through precise analogue laboratory experiments that simulate the conditions of space instruments as accurately as possible, the project particularly aims to identify possible biosignatures. By collaborating with renowned international partners, this endeavor promises to make a significant contribution to our quest to search for life beyond our home planet. The main objectives of the joint project include the development of a compact hypervelocity ice particle accelerator, high-resolution mass detectors, the study of various ice particle impacts on various surfaces and the construction of a comprehensive database of mass signatures for future and past space missions.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants
• International Connection: Czech Republic
• Partner Organisation: Czech Science Foundation
• Cooperation Partner: Jan Zabka, Ph.D.