Miniaturization of an ion trap mass spectrometer for CubeSat missions

Mass spectrometers have been included on many planetary missions, including landers and orbiters, due to their unique combination of high chemical specificity and excellent sensitivity. However, mass spectrometers used in spaceflight are still too large for a CubeSat mission. We are developing a miniaturized mass spectrometer system to address this application. A linear ion trap has been made using lithographically patterned ceramic plates—the mass of the ion trap, including mounts but not including electronics, is only 7g (Figure 1). Better-than-unit mass resolution has been demonstrated for a mass range up to 250 amu. Tandem MS capabilities have been demonstrated, enabling confirmation of the identity of observed peaks. The reduced size of this analyzer permits lower operating voltages and simplified electronics. Both electron ionization and vacuum-ultraviolet ionization sources have been miniaturized and demonstrated. Finally, a small, novel inlet designed to reduce impact-induced fragmentation during sampling for flyby and orbiting mass spectrometers is being developed and will be integrated into the ion trap system.