Project:	Determining the Composition of Ice Grains Sourced from the Enceladus Plume (JPL AO No. 16271)
Disciplines:	Planetary Science, Physics
Mentor:	Bryana Henderson, (JPL), Bryana.L.Henderson@jpl.nasa.gov, Phone: (818) 354-2416
Mentor URL:	https://science.jpl.nasa.gov/people/henderson/  (opens in new window)
Background:	The analysis of ice grains in the plume emanating from the subsurface ocean of Saturn’s moon, Enceladus, revealed tantalizing evidence that this ocean may contain the ingredients for life as we know it. Cassini’s Cosmic Dust Analyzer has returned a wealth of data regarding these grains using impact mass spectrometry that have not yet been fully analyzed. The goal of this project is to combine high-fidelity laboratory data and publicly available Cassini mission data to provide more robust estimates of Enceladus ocean composition through the analysis of spacecraft mass spectrometry datasets collected during Cassini’s tour of the Saturn system.
Description:	The intern will compare spaceborne impact ionization mass spectrometry datasets collected during the Cassini mission at Enceladus with data from a laboratory impact mass spectrometer that we have recently developed to replicate the flyby sampling of Enceladus plume particles. A large portion of the intern’s effort will include the sorting, down-selection, and calibration of mass spectra collected in Saturn’s E-ring during the Cassini-Huygens mission. The student will use these data sets to provide compositional constraints on NaCl, Na-carbonate, and Na-phosphate concentrations in the Enceladus ocean. In addition, the student will have the opportunity to develop instrument control software and/or engage in laboratory experiments as desired.
References:	Postberg, F., Kempf, S., Schmidt, J. et al. Sodium salts in E-ring ice grains from an ocean below the surface of Enceladus. Nature 459, 1098–1101 (2009). https://doi.org/10.1038/nature08046 Postberg, F., Sekine, Y., Klenner, F. et al. Detection of phosphates originating from Enceladus’s ocean. Nature 618, 489–493 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41586-023-05987-9 Srama, R., Ahrens, T.J., Altobelli, N. et al. The Cassini Cosmic Dust Analyzer. Space Sci Rev 114, 465–518 (2004). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11214-004-1435-z
Student Requirements:	Applicants with a major in computer science or physical sciences (physics, chemistry, geology, astronomy, planetary science, etc.) who have completed courses in general chemistry and general physics are encouraged to apply for this position. Students must be detail-oriented and self-motivated. Experience in the analysis of laboratory mass spectrometry data is desired, but not required.
Location / Safety:	Project building and/or room locations: . Student will need special safety training: .
Programs:	This AO can be done under the following programs:   Program    Available To        SURF@JPL    both Caltech and non-Caltech students  Click on a program name for program info and application requirements.