Locating mining sites using open mass spectrometers

Abstract

The present application discloses a helium-3 detector apparatus that generally includes a mass spectrometer having an access funnel configured to receive (sniff) helium-3 directly from an open environment through an access port. The access funnel is configured to direct helium-3 into the mass spectrometer. The apparatus further comprises a heating element configured to release helium-3 from the topsoil layer by means of heat. The movable carrier is configured to position the inlet above the topsoil layer to obtain a sample of helium-3.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to and benefits of U.S. Patent Application No. 12 / 044,636, filed on December 13, 2023, entitled LOCATING MINING SITES USING NEUTRON DETECTION, and published on July 23, 2024, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference into this document. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention generally relates to the use of helium-3 detection technology to identify mining sites in order to map areas with high concentrations of helium-3 to be mined. Background Art

[0004] Identifying the concentration of a target substance, such as helium-3 (He-3), to be mined prior to initiating mining operations is of great value. Having a rough understanding of the concentration of the target element within a mining site can effectively develop a more efficient strategy for extraction methods, thereby minimizing unnecessary loss of time and expense. By making at least a rough assessment of the concentration of the target substance, mining companies can adopt more targeted and efficient extraction techniques, reducing the need for large-scale excavation and processing. This approach not only saves valuable resources used to extract the target substance but also reduces damage to the entire mining site.

[0005] Furthermore, knowing the target substance concentration in advance has a significant impact on the economic viability of a mining project. Accurate assessments allow for informed decisions on whether to proceed with mining, thereby avoiding costly attempts where the target substance concentration may be too low to achieve a minimum return. By identifying areas of high target substance concentration, mining operations are able to more efficiently allocate their resources, directing investment to locations with higher concentrations, thereby maximizing their operating efficiency and profitability while minimizing time loss and unnecessary mining costs. Most importantly, the value of identifying target substance concentrations prior to mining is that it ensures a more efficient method for extracting the target substance.

[0006] Embodiments of the present invention are generally directed to innovations related to this subject matter. Summary of the invention

[0007] The present invention generally relates to an apparatus for mining and collecting helium-3 and other target gaseous elements from extraterrestrial bodies in an extremely low pressure environment. Extremely low pressure is defined as less than 7 millibars.

[0008] In this case, some embodiments of the present invention contemplate a mass spectrometer device, which includes a mass spectrometer carried on a movable carrier. The mass spectrometer includes a fundamental particle path, which is defined as starting from an inlet and terminating at a detector plate (the fundamental particle path crosses the mass spectrometer laterally). The mass spectrometer also includes an entry funnel having a funnel-shaped housing extending from an inlet to an outlet, wherein the outlet is smaller than the inlet. The inlet is directly docked with an open environment without hindrance, and is configured to communicate with the open environment during operation. The mass spectrometer also includes an ionizer adjacent to the outlet, wherein the ionizer of the mass spectrometer is configured to ionize the fundamental particles (e.g., atoms or single molecules) in a portion of the fundamental particle path. The mass spectrometer also includes a detector housing and an angled housing, the detector housing including a detector plate, the angled housing having a polarizing magnet, the polarizing magnet being configured to guide the fundamental particles along the fundamental particle path at an angle β+ / -a certain offset (depending on the mass of the fundamental particles), the offset being, for example, less than 10 degrees. The mass spectrometer device and in some embodiments the inlet funnel have a particle surface disruptor configured to release the elementary particles from the particle surface outside the mass spectrometer device. The mass spectrometer device also has a removable carrier that supports or otherwise holds the mass spectrometer. The removable carrier is configured to position the inlet port above the external particle surface.

[0009] Another embodiment of the present invention contemplates a mass spectrometer system comprising a mass spectrometer, a heating element, and a removable carrier. The mass spectrometer may include a channel extending from an inlet through the mass spectrometer system to a detector. The mass spectrometer may also include an entry funnel, the entry funnel including an entry port, the entry port being configured to receive elementary particles directly from an open environment. The entry funnel is configured to guide elementary particles to an outlet. The mass spectrometer may also include an ion generator configured to ionize elementary particles from an outlet. The mass spectrometer also includes a polarizing magnet, the polarizing magnet being located in an angled housing between the ionizer and the detector. The heating element may be located in the mass spectrometer or other locations of the system, the heating element being configured to release elementary particles from the particle surface outside the mass spectrometer system by means of heat. The system contemplates a removable carrier, which is configured to position the inlet port near the external particle surface.

[0010] The mass spectrometer device is envisioned to include a mass spectrometer positioned and supported by a removable carrier. The mass spectrometer can have an entry funnel that is configured to receive elementary particles directly from an open environment through an entry port. The entry funnel is configured to guide the elementary particles into the mass spectrometer. The device can also include a heating element that is configured to release elementary particles from a topsoil layer by means of heat, and the topsoil layer is not a part of the open environment mass spectrometer device. Some embodiments envision that the mass spectrometer includes a heating element. The device also includes a removable carrier that is configured to position the entry port above the topsoil layer (positioned within 12 inches of the topsoil layer surface).

[0011] In this case, some other embodiments of the present invention contemplate a helium-3 detection device as shown, which includes a thermal neutron source and a thermal neutron detector. More specifically, the thermal neutron source may include a thermal neutron transmitter encapsulated in a hydrogen-rich material, wherein the thermal neutron source is configured to emit thermal neutrons in all directions. The thermal neutron detector may be configured to detect the concentration of thermal neutrons. In this device, a neutron shield is placed between the thermal neutron source and the thermal neutron detector. The neutron shield is configured to block some thermal neutrons emitted from the thermal neutron source that are aimed at the thermal neutron detector (for example, attenuating at least 90% of the neutrons between the shield and the thermal neutron detector). For example, a power source such as a battery or a solar system is configured to provide power to the thermal neutron source and the thermal neutron detector. The metal plate has a perimeter, i.e., a sidewall boundary of the metal plate shown by four sides. The thermal neutron source, the thermal neutron detector, and the neutron shield are arranged within the perimeter of the metal plate.

[0012] Alternatively, another embodiment of the present invention contemplates a helium-3 detection system that generally includes a thermal neutron detector for sensing the number of neutrons emitted from a thermal neutron source to assess the concentration of helium-3 in a topsoil layer or other granular soil. More specifically, the embodiment contemplates that the thermal neutron source is configured to emit thermal neutrons in all directions, wherein the thermal neutron detection system is configured to detect the neutron concentration of thermal neutrons backscattered from the granular soil. A neutron shield is placed between the thermal neutron source and the thermal neutron detector to isolate neutrons detected from the topsoil layer, thereby assessing the number or concentration of helium-3 in the topsoil layer. The system may include a power source such as a battery to provide power to the thermal neutron source and the thermal neutron detection system. The neutron shield, the thermal neutron source, and the thermal neutron detection system are contemplated to be disposed on a metal plate that is configured to be placed within 10 centimeters of the surface of the granular soil.

[0013] Another optional embodiment of the present invention contemplates a device for detecting helium-3 in the regolith of the moon. The device may include: a neutron source configured to emit thermal neutrons; a neutron detector configured to detect the concentration of neutrons backscattered from the regolith; and a neutron shield disposed between the neutron source and the neutron detector. The neutron shield is configured to block at least some neutrons in the line of sight between the neutron source and the neutron detector. The device may also include a power source configured to provide power to the thermal neutron source, the thermal neutron detection system, and a transmitter. The transmitter is configured to transmit the neutron concentration to a remote receiver. The neutron shield, the thermal neutron source, and the thermal neutron detection system are contemplated to be disposed on a metal plate. The device is also contemplated to be moved to different locations on the lunar surface via a transporter. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] Figure 1A is a line drawing of an embodiment of a transport aircraft and a helium-3 detector consistent with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0015] Figure 1B is a schematic diagram of mapping an area on the moon using a helium-3 probe assembly carried on a jumper transporter consistent with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0016] Figures 2A-2C is a line drawing depicting a helium-3 detector apparatus consistent with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0017] Figure 2D is a block diagram depicting an embodiment of a thermal neutron source along section line BB consistent with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0018] Figure 2E is a line drawing of a cross-section of a helium-3 detector apparatus along section line AA consistent with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0019] Figure 3 is a line drawing of another embodiment of a helium-3 detector apparatus having a handle consistent with embodiments of the present invention.

[0020] Figures 4A-4C depicts a helium-3 detector arrangement using an open environment mass spectrometer embodiment consistent with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0021] Figures 5A-5D are line drawings depicting different views of an embodiment of a mass spectrometer 400 consistent with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0022] Fig. 6A is a line drawing depicting an embodiment of components of mass spectrometer 400 in operation;

[0023] Figure 6B is a block diagram of a method for using an open environment mass spectrometer; and

[0024] Figure 7 is a line drawing illustrating an orbital deployment vehicle deploying a mass spectrometer dispersion module on the lunar surface consistent with an embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] First, the present disclosure is given only in an exemplary and non-restrictive manner. Therefore, although the implementation means described herein are for the convenience of explanation and are shown and described for exemplary embodiments, it is understood that the principles of this article can be equally applied to other similar structures related to the subject matter in the field of the present invention. Phrases such as "in one embodiment" and "according to one embodiment" generally mean that the specific features, structures or characteristics following the phrase are included in at least one embodiment of the present invention, and can be included in more than one embodiment of the present invention. Importantly, these phrases do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. If the specification indicates that a certain component or feature "may", "can", "may" or "perhaps" include or have a certain characteristic, then the specific component or feature does not necessarily include or have the characteristic. The terms "having", "with", "including" and "including" used in this article are regarded as open language, synonymous with the term "including". In addition, the term "substantially" used in this article is intended to emphasize that the characteristics of something should be interpreted within an acceptable tolerance range known to those skilled in the art to meet typical normal world tolerances, and its meaning is similar to "more or less". For example, substantially flat, substantially straight, substantially on time, etc. all indicate that these characteristics cannot be perfect in their limited sense. Thus, if "substantially" does not specify a specific + / - value, it is assumed that substantially means within + / - 2.5% of the exact value. The term "connected to" as used herein should be interpreted as a first element being physically linked or attached to a second element, rather than as an "additional means" as in "means plus function." In fact, unless the term expressly uses "means" followed by the gerund form of the verb, the term should not be interpreted under 35 U.S.C. § 112(f). Hereinafter, the same markings may be used to identify similar or identical structures.

[0026] With respect to the drawings, it is noted that the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale and are schematic in nature to illustrate the features of interest. Descriptive terms such as above / below, top / bottom, horizontal / vertical, left / right, etc. may be employed with respect to the various views or conventions provided in the figures as would be commonly understood by an observer to enhance the reader's understanding and are in no way intended to be limiting. All embodiments described herein are considered operable regardless of the overall physical orientation unless elements that rely on gravity for operation are otherwise specifically described.

[0027] Embodiments for identifying target materials in extremely low pressure and low gravity environments are described herein. An extremely low pressure environment is defined herein as less than 7 millibars, while the pressure at sea level on Earth is approximately 1 bar. Low gravity is defined herein as at most 4 m / s 2 Various aspects of the invention contemplate the mining of gaseous atoms and molecules on extraterrestrial bodies such as the Moon, asteroids, satellites orbiting other planets, Mars, etc. Many such extraterrestrial bodies have little or no ambient pressure at or within a few meters of their surface, and, depending on the size of the extraterrestrial body, they typically have a gravity that is significantly lower than the gravity on Earth.

[0028] Although embodiments of the present invention may be used in conjunction with many different extraterrestrial bodies, one purpose of the present invention is to focus on mining gaseous atoms and molecules (matter) from the Moon, with a particular focus on helium-3 (He-3). The Moon's atmosphere (surface boundary exosphere) has a mass of approximately 3×10 -15 bar and can range in temperature from 20° to 400° Kelvin. Extracting or otherwise mining important gaseous materials such as oxygen, nitrogen, hydrogen, and helium from the Moon could reduce reliance on transporting such gaseous materials from Earth in order to continue exploring the Moon and maintain long-term habitation on the Moon. In addition, Helium-3 (He-3), a light stable isotope of helium with two protons and one neutron, is expected to be an important ingredient in fusion reactions, and the content of He-3 on the Moon is much higher than on Earth. In some estimates, the content of He-3 on the Moon is more than a thousand times higher than that on Earth, making the Moon a better target for obtaining He-3.

[0029] Some embodiments of the present invention contemplate identifying the concentration of target materials on or within a few feet below the lunar surface by detecting the concentration of neutrons backscattered from the lunar regolith (or "regolith" for short). An alternative embodiment uses an open environment mass spectrometer to sample the concentration of helium-3 from the lunar regolith. In this way, the target material to be mined (e.g., He-3) can be mapped within a mining area of ​​interest to more efficiently mine the areas where the target material is most abundant.

[0030] Therefore, some embodiments of the present invention contemplate a helium-3 detector device, which generally includes a neutron shield placed between a thermal neutron source and three thermal neutron detectors, and the thermal neutron source, thermal neutron detectors and neutron shield are all placed on a metal platform. In operation, when the helium-3 detector device is placed directly on the ground (topsoil) or slightly above the ground, thermal neutrons are emitted from the thermal neutron source. Some thermal neutrons from the neutron source will be backscattered from the topsoil and will be detected by the thermal neutron detection system, thereby recording a baseline count level. When helium-3 is present in the topsoil, some thermal neutrons will be absorbed by the helium-3, thereby reducing the detected count rate. When integrated into a probe vehicle, the device can be moved around and compare the count rate at each location, or the probe vehicle can slowly crawl along the ground. In this way, the high and low levels of helium-3 in the topsoil can be mapped.

[0031] Other embodiments of the present invention contemplate a He-3 detector device, which generally includes a mass spectrometer having an entry funnel configured to receive (sniff) helium-3 directly from an open environment through an entry port. The entry funnel is configured to direct the helium-3 into the mass spectrometer. The device also includes a heating element configured to release the helium-3 from the regolith by means of heat. A movable carrier is configured to position the entry port above the regolith to obtain a sample of the helium-3.

[0032] With reference to the accompanying drawings, Figure 1A is a line drawing of a transporter and helium-3 detector embodiment consistent with an embodiment of the present invention. The transporter and helium-3 detector embodiment 100 generally includes a helium-3 (He-3) detector 200, which is supported or otherwise carried by a rover 102. The rover 102 includes a running gear, which in this embodiment is a wheel 106 mounted on a suspension system 105, but the running gear may simply include tracks, robotic legs, or some other type of running gear to transport the helium-3 detector 200 to different locations on the surface 112A of the moon 122. As shown, the helium-3 detector 200 rests on top of the metal plate 110 and is substantially enclosed by the shield 108. An antenna 212 extending from the shield 108 is connected to the transmitter electronics and can be connected to a transceiver (not shown) housed in the transmitter 214. The antenna 212 facilitates at least one-way communication with a receiver remote from the rover 102 by means of, for example, radio frequency RF. Other embodiments contemplate such as Figure 1BAs shown, the helium-3 probe 200 is integrated with the low-gravity jumper 120, which jumps from the surface 112A of the moon 122 and then lands at different locations on the surface of the moon 122. The low-gravity jumper 120 can use jet propulsion or a spring-loaded platform to jump from the surface 112A of the moon 122. The spring-loaded platform avoids damaging the surface 112A of the regolith 112.

[0033] Figure 1B 1 is a schematic diagram of mapping an area on the moon 122 using a helium-3 detector device carried on a jumper transport consistent with an embodiment of the present invention. The embodiment contemplates a jumper 120 that can jump from a first location 152 after assessing the helium-3 concentration at the first location 152, land at a second location 154 and assess the helium-3 concentration at the second location 154, and then jump to a third location 156 to assess the helium-3 concentration at the third location 156. In this way, the helium-3 concentration of a portion of the lunar surface 112A can be mapped to pinpoint the richest and most ideal location for mining helium-3. Since the gravity on the moon 122 is about 1 / 6 of the gravity on the earth, the energy required for the jumper 120 to jump (and land) is significantly reduced. The jumper 120 can be a spring-loaded vehicle or pod, and can use a gyroscope or jetpack to stay level (keep upright orientation when jumping). Optionally, the jumper 120 can be equipped with a rocket to jump from location 154 to location 156.

[0034] Figures 2A-2C is a line drawing depicting a helium-3 detector apparatus 200 (interchangeably referred to as simply “helium-3 detector” or “apparatus 200 ”) consistent with an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2A is an isometric bar diagram of the major components of the helium-3 detector 200, such as Figure 2AAs shown, the helium-3 detector 200 includes a shield 206 disposed between a thermal neutron source 202 and three thermal neutron detectors 204. The shield 206 blocks the line of sight 218 of a portion of the thermal neutrons 222 emitted from the thermal neutron source 202, preventing them from affecting the thermal neutron detectors 204. The line of sight 218 is defined as a straight line along which an observer (in this case, the thermal neutron source 202) can "see" the thermal neutron detector device 204 without obstruction. In one embodiment, the shield 206 is contemplated as two 1-2 inch thick pieces of boronized HDPE (high density polyethylene) produced by EMCO Industrial Plastics, LLC, headquartered in Cedar Grove, New Jersey. Boronized HDPE is specifically designed for nuclear shielding applications. The material uses 5% by weight of boron to shield neutrons in a variety of applications, including high-intensity X-rays, cancer treatment facilities, hospitals, nuclear submarines, and nuclear power plants. One 1 inch thick plate should attenuate the flux of thermal neutrons 222 in the line of sight 218 to about 5% on the other side of the shield 206, while two 1 inch thick plates should attenuate the flux of thermal neutrons 222 in the line of sight 218 to about 0.025% on the other side of the shield 206. In other words, the two plates should attenuate or otherwise prevent 99.25% of the neutrons from reaching the thermal neutron detector 204. In this embodiment, the two plates 206A and 206B are separated by a lead plate 207. As further shown, the neutron shield 206, the thermal neutron source 202, the thermal neutron detector 204, the battery pack 210, the antenna 212, and the antenna connection line 213 are all supported by the metal plate 110.

[0035] Figure 2B It is an example depiction Figure 2A 2, but the line drawing does not show the neutron shield 206 in order to illustrate the line of sight 218 between the thermal neutron source 202 and the thermal neutron detector assembly 204. The line of sight 218 is a direct path between the thermal neutron source 202 and the three thermal neutron detectors 204 that essentially make up the thermal neutron detector assembly 204.

[0036] The thermal neutron detector device 204 is sensitive to the number of neutrons 222 that impact the detector device 204 and is therefore able to provide information about the concentration of neutrons it encounters. There are several commercially available thermal neutron detectors 204, including the BF3 counter tube produced by Mirion Technologies, headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia. The thermal neutron detector uses a boron trifluoride (BF3) neutron counter. The neutron sensitivity of these proportional counters is achieved by filling the tube with boron trifluoride gas made from a high concentration of boron-10. Thermal neutrons react with the isotope boron-10 to emit alpha particles, which produce ionization (electrons and gas ions) in the gas fill of the detector. In the electric field between the electrodes, these charged particles are accelerated and undergo secondary ionization. This so-called "gas amplification" proportionally increases the amount of charge produced in the tube.

[0037] Figure 2C is a top view line drawing of the helium-3 detector assembly 200, depicting the elements relative to the split lines AA and BB. For reference, a computer electronics housing 216 is shown, which houses the computing electronics required to operate the various electrical elements contained in the helium-3 detector 200, and a transmitter 214 houses a communication transmitter or more likely a transceiver. The antenna 212 is connected to the communication circuit in the transmitter 214. Also shown are the battery 210, the thermal neutron source 202, the shielding, and the thermal neutron detector assembly 204. The thermal neutron detector assembly 204 includes three detectors in this embodiment, but may also have as few as one detector or more detectors as needed. The split line AA essentially divides the metal plate 110, the thermal neutron source 202, the shielding, and the thermal neutron detection assembly 204 into two equal parts. The split line BB, which is orthogonal to the split line AA, divides the thermal neutron source 202 into two equal parts.

[0038] Figure 2DBB is a block diagram depicting an embodiment of a thermal neutron source 202 along the section line BB consistent with embodiments of the present invention. This embodiment of the thermal neutron source 202 may include an americium beryllium (AmBe) neutron source (core) 232 encapsulated in a hydrogen-rich housing 230, which housing 230 is contemplated in this embodiment as a polyethylene housing. The polyethylene housing 230 reduces the energy of neutrons by colliding with hydrogen nuclei in the polyethylene, thereby thermalizing the neutrons. The AmBe thermal neutron source is commercially available from QSA Global, Inc., headquartered in Burlington, Massachusetts. An alternative thermal neutron source 202 includes an integrated moderated neutron generator such as a deuterium-tritium or deuterium-deuterium neutron generator, which is commercially available from Adelphi Technology, Inc., headquartered in Redwood City, California. Therefore, some embodiments of the present invention contemplate that the thermal neutron source 202 is an off-the-shelf, easily commercially available thermal neutron source.

[0039] Figure 2E 2 is a line drawing of a cross section of a helium-3 detector device 200 along the section line AA consistent with an embodiment of the present invention. It is known that helium-3 absorbs neutrons. Therefore, the concentration of neutrons penetrating the helium-3 will be reduced accordingly. In the device 200, some neutrons emitted from the thermal neutron source 202 as shown by arrow 219 will be backscattered from the regolith 112 to the thermal neutron detector 204 (see narrow arrow 220), and some neutrons in arrow 219 will be absorbed by the helium-3 present in the regolith 112. Therefore, the concentration of helium-3 in the regolith 112 will be inversely proportional to the following concentration, that is, the concentration of neutrons detected by the thermal neutron detector 204 relative to the concentration of neutrons emitted by the thermal neutron source 202. In other words, the higher the concentration of helium-3 in the regolith 112, the fewer the number of neutrons reaching the thermal neutron detector 204, which is shown by narrow arrow 220. The neutron shield 206 blocks neutrons in the line of sight 218 of the neutron detector 204, preventing them from hitting the neutron detector 204, thereby improving the resolution of the backscattered neutron concentration 220. The metal plate 110 is made of aluminum in some embodiments, which does not change the number of neutrons (emitted by the thermal neutron source 202) that penetrate into the regolith 112. According to the device 200, the neutron concentration detected by the thermal neutron detector 204 is compared with the neutron concentration produced by the thermal neutron source 202 to provide an indication of the helium-3 concentration in the area of ​​the regolith 112. Although the exact amount of helium-3 may not be obtained, a relative amount can be obtained, which is sufficient to identify and map high-interest areas on the moon 122 for mining helium-3 based on sampling of different areas / regions on the moon 122. Data acquisition and calculations can be performed by an electronic computer system 216 on the helium-3 detector device 200.

[0040] Figure 3is a line drawing of another embodiment of a helium-3 detector apparatus 200 including a handle 224 that may be used to transport the helium-3 detector apparatus 200 from one location to another, either manually or via robotic carrying, or otherwise.

[0041] Figures 4A-4C A helium-3 detector arrangement is depicted using an open environment mass spectrometer embodiment consistent with an embodiment of the present invention. Here the mass spectrometer arrangement 300 is open to the environment 405, meaning that there is no pressure chamber surrounding the mass spectrometer 400, but rather the mass spectrometer 400 operates at the ambient pressure surrounding the mass spectrometer arrangement 300. The low pressure on the moon 122 makes this possible. Currently all conventional mass spectrometers operate in a low pressure chamber, which is an integral part of or associated with conventional mass spectrometers. Figure 4A is a line of sight bar diagram of mass spectrometer device 300, which generally includes rover 102 or some other movable carrier, such as a dispersion capsule (not shown, but multiple dispersion capsules can be deployed, and these dispersion capsules are scattered over a large area of ​​the moon 122, such as from hundreds of square meters to hundreds of square kilometers), Figure 1B The jumper 120 in the Figure 3 The rover 102 includes a hand-held carrier 224, etc., all of which are capable of holding the mass spectrometer 400. As shown, the rover 102 contains most of the mass spectrometer 400 in the rover cover 108 and the rover base 110. The rover 102 is configured to move to different locations on the surface 112A of the moon 122 to collect helium-3 concentration samples at each different location. There is an antenna 212 connected to a transceiver (not shown) to send the helium-3 concentration data at each location to a data receiver, such as a central hub or other target recipient who wants to obtain data. The mass spectrometer 400 is connected to the rover through an entry port 434 (see Figure 5C ) inhales (or sniffs) helium-3 at the large end of the entry funnel 402. The entry funnel 402 (entry funnel edge 409) is located near the regolith surface 112A at a close proximity distance 408. The proximity distance 408 is defined herein as less than 12 inches. In some embodiments, the distance 408 between the entry funnel 402 and the regolith surface 112A is preferably less than 6 inches, and the entry funnel 402 can be placed directly on or in contact with the regolith surface 112A. The wheels 106 and suspension 105 of the rover are labeled for reference.

[0042] Figure 4Bis a side view bar diagram of mass spectrometer assembly 300 with rover cover 108 removed from rover 102 to reveal components associated with frame 302. Mass spectrometer 400 is shown as being mostly suspended from rover floor 110 except for an entry hopper 402 which extends from floor 110 to a height less than 12 inches above topsoil surface 112A. Figure 5A As shown in more detail, the entry funnel 402 is connected to the funnel joint 404, which is attached to the ionizer and accelerator housing 412, the angled magnet housing 414, and the detector housing 422. The suspension 105, wheels 106, and antenna 212 are labeled for reference.

[0043] Figure 4C 300 is an isometric bar diagram of a mass spectrometer apparatus 300, wherein the rover cover 108 is removed from the rover 102 to reveal components associated with the frame 302. An upper view of the mass spectrometer 400 is presented with a computer system 216 and a transmitter 214 having an antenna 212 and antenna connection lines 213. In this embodiment, a battery pack 210 connected to a base plate 110 is configured to provide power to the rover 102 and its connected electronics. As previously described, power can be enhanced by renewable energy sources such as solar panels (not shown) on the rover cover 108. In this embodiment, a shock absorber 104 is connected between the suspension 105 and the wheels 106 to provide a smoother / more controllable ride for the equipment carried by the rover 102.

[0044] Figures 5A-5D are line drawings depicting different views of an embodiment of a mass spectrometer 400 consistent with an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 5A 4 is an isometric view of the mass spectrometer 400 showing the elementary particle path 401 indicated by the thick arrow. The elementary particle path 401 is called the elementary particle path because it is the path of elementary particles 460 defined by atoms and individual molecules flowing through the mass spectrometer 400. The elementary particle path 401 begins at the inlet 434 of the entry funnel 402, passes laterally through the funnel joint 404, enters the ionizer and accelerator housing 412, and then passes through the angled magnet housing 414 to the detector 464 in the detector housing 422 (see FIG. 4 ). Figure 5D As shown in the figure, the inlet funnel 402 includes a funnel-shaped housing 403, which extends from an inlet port 434 to an outlet port 435 at the funnel joint 404 (see Fig. 6A). In this embodiment, the outlet 435 is smaller than the inlet 434 (about 20% of the size of the inlet 434). Some embodiments contemplate that the area of ​​the inlet 434 is at least twice that of the outlet 435. In this embodiment, the center angle of the angled magnet housing 414 is β, for example, which can range between 10 and 90 degrees. The magnet device 416 is substantially located at the apex of the angled housing 414 to redirect the path of the elementary particle 460 (in this case helium-3) toward the detector 464. The redirected path of the elementary particle 460 is β + / - a certain offset, the offset depending on the mass of the elementary particle 460. The offset can be less than 10 degrees.

[0045] Figure 5B 4 is a bottom view of the mass spectrometer 400, which highlights the entrance 434 of the funnel. As shown, the entrance funnel 402 includes a heating element 430 or other granular surface disruptor, such as a laser, an ultrasonic transmitter, a microwave transmitter or other exciter capable of releasing helium-3 from the granular soil / topsoil layer 112. The heating element 430 is powered by an electrical lead 436. As shown, the funnel entrance 434 is defined by the funnel entrance edge 409. A filter 432, such as a HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filter, disposed in the outlet 435 is also shown. The filter 432 is disposed at (or near) the outlet 435 to filter out topsoil or unwanted solid particles that are larger than the base particles sampled in the mass spectrometer 400. The ion generator and accelerator housing 412, the angled magnet housing 414, the detector housing 422 and the magnet device 416 are marked here for reference.

[0046] Figure 5C 404, showing the elementary particle path 401 leading to the inlet port 434 and exiting the funnel joint 404. The outlet 435 of the funnel is hidden and therefore represented by a dashed line. The heating element 430 is shown as slightly extending from the edge 409 of the funnel inlet port.

[0047] Figure 5D4 is an exploded view of a mass spectrometer 400 consistent with an embodiment of the present invention. For the entry funnel device 402, the heating element 430 and the filter 432 extend from the entry funnel device 402. On the left side of the figure, the ion generator 450 with ion generator leads 410A and 410B, the elementary particle accelerator 452, the shielding plate 454 and the elementary particle aperture 456 are shown as extending from the ion generator and accelerator housing 412. The magnet device 416 is shown as extending behind the angled magnet housing 414. The magnet device 416 generally includes a first polarizing magnet 470 and a second polarizing magnet 472, and the first polarizing magnet 470 and the second polarizing magnet 472 are separated by a gap 474. In this embodiment, the helium-3 as the elementary particle 460 is aimed at the gap 474 and is redirected by the polarizing magnets 470 and 472 (at an angle β + / - a certain offset) when passing through the rear magnet adjustment aperture 462. The redirected ionized elementary particles 460B pass through the post-magnet conditioning aperture 462 in the post-magnet conditioning plate 461 along a path to the detector plate 464. The detector probe 420 picks up the signal of the helium-3 from the detector plate 464 and forwards the signal information to the computing system 216.

[0048] Fig. 6A is a line drawing depicting an embodiment of components in operation of mass spectrometer 400. The depicted embodiment is a generalized explanation of the basic elements of mass spectrometer 400, which may include more elements or exclude some elements to improve efficiency depending on the specific design, as will be understood by those skilled in the art. Fig. 6A A general explanation is based on the block diagram Figure 6B 409 is positioned near the topsoil surface 112A at a distance 408 defined as less than 12 inches (step 480). The heater 430, which is one embodiment of a granular surface disruptor, radiatively heats 475 the topsoil 112, thereby releasing base particles 460 retained in or on the topsoil 112. Some embodiments contemplate a shield (not shown) having an edge 409 extending from the entry hopper 402 to the topsoil surface 112A to shield and better collect higher concentrations of released base particles 460.

[0049] Continue to refer Fig. 6A, some of the released elementary particles 460 are excited by the heat 475 and pass through the entry funnel 402 and the funnel joint 404 into the ionizer housing 412 (step 482). The elementary particles 460 are directed to the ionization region in the ionizer 450, where electrons are emitted to bombard the elementary particles 460, thereby producing ionized elementary particles 460A (step 484). The ionized elementary particles 460A are accelerated by the electric field generated by the accelerator 452 and are directed through the accelerator aperture 456 located in the accelerator adjustment plate 454. The accelerated ionized elementary particles 460A rush toward the gap 474 between the polarizing magnets 470 and 472 (step 486). The polarized magnets 470 and 472 redirect or otherwise bend the trajectory of the ionized elementary particle 160A at a predictable angle β + / - a certain offset (depending on the mass of the ionized elementary particle 160A) in the angled magnet housing 414 (step 488). The present embodiment includes a post-magnet adjustment plate 461 with a post-magnet adjustment aperture 462, which separates the target redirected ionized elementary particles 160B (step 490). In the case of helium-3, the post-magnet adjustment plate 461 has a post-magnet adjustment aperture 462 that separates the redirected ionized helium-3 160B. The separated redirected ionized elementary particles 160B, such as helium-3, are detected by the detector plate 464, which transmits the number / concentration of elementary particles 160B at the sampling location of the regolith 112 (step 492). As the rover 102 or other movable carrier supporting the mass spectrometer 400 moves from one location 152 to another location 154, for example, relative / comparative concentrations of target elementary particles 160 (e.g., helium-3) may be established and stored at least in the mass spectrometer device 300 without being transmitted to a remote receiver (not shown) via the antenna 212 (step 494). The comparative concentrations do not require the exact amount of target elementary particles 160 in the sampling area, but rather the corresponding concentrations of target elementary particles 160, such as helium-3, to better locate high-yield areas for mining.

[0050] Figure 7is a line drawing of an orbital deployment vehicle that exemplarily depicts deployment of a mass spectrometer dispersion module 330 consistent with embodiments of the present invention. Some embodiments contemplate a deployment vehicle 440 orbiting around the moon 122 or some other extraterrestrial body, deploying multiple mass spectrometer dispersion modules 330 at multiple locations on the moon 122. The mass spectrometer dispersion modules 330 can, but need not be, single-use devices that are capable of transmitting concentrations of target elementary particles (such as helium-3) back to the deployment vehicle 440 or other target locations. The mass spectrometer dispersion modules 330 are further contemplated as being maintained horizontally (maintaining an upright orientation upon landing) by gyroscopes or jetpacks (not shown). Optionally, the mass spectrometer dispersion modules 330 can be equipped with mechanical linkages (e.g., arms) that are configured to upright the mass spectrometer dispersion modules 330 once the respective mass spectrometer dispersion modules 330 reach the lunar surface 112A.

[0051] In view of the present description, the following are examples of some embodiments, which exemplarily supplement some of the device embodiments discussed above and shown in the figures to help the reader understand. Therefore, the elements mentioned below are examples provided to help understand the present invention and should not be regarded as limiting. The reader will understand that the following elements and configurations are interchangeable within the scope and spirit of the present invention. Exemplary embodiments may include the elements in the figures.

[0052] In this case, some embodiments of the present invention contemplate a mass spectrometer device 300 (e.g. Figures 4A-4C ), the mass spectrometer device 300 includes a mass spectrometer 400 carried on the movable carrier 102. The mass spectrometer 400 (as shown in Figures 5A-5D434 and 464. The mass spectrometer 400 is a mass spectrometer comprising a particle path 401 that begins at an inlet port 434 and terminates at a detector plate 464. The particle path 401 traverses the mass spectrometer 400. The mass spectrometer 400 also includes an entry funnel 402 having a funnel-shaped housing 403 that extends from the inlet port 434 to an outlet 435, wherein the outlet 435 is smaller than the inlet port 434. The inlet port 434 is directly connected to the open environment 405 without obstruction and is configured to communicate with the open environment 405 during operation. The mass spectrometer 400 also includes an ionizer 450 adjacent to the outlet 435, wherein the ionizer 450 of the mass spectrometer is configured to ionize the elementary particles 460 in a portion of the particle path 401. The mass spectrometer 400 also includes a detector housing 422 and an angled housing 418, the detector housing 422 including a detector plate 464, and the angled housing 418 having polarized magnets 470 and 472, which are configured to guide the elementary particles 460 along the elementary particle path 401 at an angle β + / - a certain offset (e.g., less than 10 degrees). The mass spectrometer device 300 and the entry funnel 402 in some embodiments have a granular surface disruptor 430, which is configured to release the elementary particles 460 from the granular surface 112 outside the mass spectrometer device 300. The mass spectrometer device 300 includes a movable carrier 102 that supports the mass spectrometer 400. The movable carrier 102 is configured to position the entry port 434 above the external granular surface 112.

[0053] The mass spectrometer device 300 is envisioned as a mass spectrometer device 300 without a pressure chamber adapted to maintain a pressure lower than the open environment 405 .

[0054] One embodiment of the mass spectrometer apparatus 300 contemplates the particulate surface disruptor 430 being a heating element.

[0055] One embodiment of mass spectrometer apparatus 300 contemplates that outlet port 435 has an area that is at least half that of inlet port 434 .

[0056] One embodiment of the mass spectrometer apparatus 300 contemplates an open environment 405 below 7 mTorr.

[0057] One embodiment of the mass spectrometer apparatus 300 contemplates that the elementary particles 460 include helium-3 and that the mass spectrometer 400 is tuned for helium-3.

[0058] One embodiment of the mass spectrometer apparatus 300 contemplates that the movable carrier is selected from the group consisting of the rover 102 , the dispersion chamber 440 , the jumper 120 , or the handheld carrier 224 .

[0059] One embodiment of the mass spectrometer apparatus 300 contemplates that the movable carrier is configured to position the entry port 434 within 6 inches of the exterior granular surface 112A.

[0060] One embodiment of the mass spectrometer apparatus 300 contemplates that the mass spectrometer apparatus 300 is configured to determine the concentration of helium-3 in the granular soil 112 at the first location 152 and the second location 154. This may also include a wireless communicator including an antenna 212 and a transmitter 214 configured to communicate the concentration to a receiver (not shown).

[0061] Another embodiment of the present invention contemplates a mass spectrometer system 300, which includes a mass spectrometer 400, a heating element 430, and a movable carrier 102. The mass spectrometer 400 may include a path 401 extending from an inlet port 434 through the mass spectrometer system 200 to a detector 464. The mass spectrometer 400 may also include an entry funnel 402, the entry funnel 402 including an inlet port 434, the inlet port 434 being configured to receive elementary particles 460 directly from an open environment 405, and the entry funnel 402 being configured to guide the elementary particles 460 to an outlet 435. The mass spectrometer 400 may also include an ionizer 450, which is configured to ionize the elementary particles 460 received from the outlet 435. The mass spectrometer 400 also includes polarizing magnets 470 and 472, which are located in an angled housing 418 between the ionizer 450 and the detector 464. The heating element 430 can be located in the mass spectrometer 400 or elsewhere in the system 300 and is configured to release the elementary particles 460 from the granular surface 112 with the aid of heat. The granular surface is not part of the mass spectrometer system 300. The system 300 contemplates a movable carrier 102 that is configured to position an access port 434 at a location near the exterior granular surface 112.

[0062] Some embodiments of the mass spectrometer system 300 also contemplate that the outlet 435 is smaller than the inlet 434 .

[0063] Some embodiments of mass spectrometer system 300 also contemplate that access port 434 communicates with open environment 405 during operation, wherein there is no pressure chamber associated with mass spectrometer system 300. "Associated" is defined herein as being a part of system 300 or having a direct cooperative relationship with system 300.

[0064] Some embodiments of the mass spectrometer system 300 contemplate that the mass spectrometer 400 also includes an accelerator positioned between the ionizer 450 and the polarizing magnets 470 and 472 .

[0065] Some embodiments of the mass spectrometer system 300 also contemplate that the polarized magnets 470 and 472 are configured to direct the elementary particles 460 along the elementary particle path 401 at an angle β + / - an offset (defined as less than 10 degrees).

[0066] Some embodiments of the mass spectrometer system 300 also contemplate that the mass spectrometer 400 is adjusted to determine the concentration of helium-3 in the outer granular surface 112 at the first location 152 and the second location 154 .

[0067] Some embodiments of the mass spectrometer system 300 contemplate that the movable carrier is selected from the group consisting of the rover 102 , the dispersion pod 490 , the jumper 120 , or the handheld carrier 224 .

[0068] Some embodiments of mass spectrometer system 300 contemplate open environment 405 having a pressure below 7 mTorr.

[0069] In another embodiment of the present invention, it is contemplated that the open environment mass spectrometer apparatus 300 includes a mass spectrometer 400, which is positioned and supported by a movable carrier 102. The mass spectrometer 400 can have an entry funnel 402, which is configured to receive elementary particles 460 directly from the open environment 405 through an entry port 434. The entry funnel 402 is configured to guide the elementary particles 460 into the mass spectrometer 400. The apparatus 300 can also include a heating element 430, which is configured to release elementary particles 460 from the topsoil layer 112 by means of heat, and the topsoil layer 112 is not part of the open environment mass spectrometer apparatus 300. Some embodiments contemplate that the mass spectrometer 400 includes a heating element. The apparatus 300 also includes a movable carrier 102, which is configured to position the entry port 434 at a height above the topsoil layer 112, typically less than 12 inches.

[0070] One embodiment of the open environment mass spectrometer apparatus 300 contemplates that the mass spectrometer 400 is maintained at a pressure substantially equal to the pressure of the open environment 405 .

[0071] In this case, some other embodiments of the present invention envisage that Figure 2A-2E The helium-3 detection device 200 shown in the figure includes a thermal neutron source 202 and a thermal neutron detector 204. More specifically, the thermal neutron source 202 may include a thermal neutron transmitter 232 encapsulated in a hydrogen-rich material 230, wherein the thermal neutron source 202 is configured to emit thermal neutrons 222 in all directions (see Figure 2E). The thermal neutron detector 204 may be configured to detect a concentration 220 of thermal neutrons 222. In the apparatus 200, a neutron shield 206 is disposed between the thermal neutron source 202 and the thermal neutron detector 204. The neutron shield 206 is configured to block some of the thermal neutrons 222 emitted from the thermal neutron source 202 that are aimed at the thermal neutron detector 204 (e.g., attenuate at least 90% of the neutrons 222 located between the shield 206 and the thermal neutron detector 204). A power source 210, such as a battery or a solar system, is configured to provide power to the thermal neutron source 202 and the thermal neutron detector 204. The metal plate 110 has a perimeter 114, i.e., a sidewall boundary of the metal plate 110 shown by four sides 114. The thermal neutron source 202, the thermal neutron detector 204, and the neutron shield 206 are disposed within the perimeter 114 of the metal plate 110.

[0072] In another embodiment, rover 102 is contemplated to support helium-3 detection device 200, wherein rover 102 positions metal plate within 10 centimeters of surface 112A of granular soil 112. Helium-3 detection device 200 contemplates concentration 220 being affected by the concentration of helium-3 in granular soil 112.

[0073] In another embodiment of the helium-3 detection device 200, the metal plate 110 is made of aluminum.

[0074] Helium-3 detection device 200 may also include wireless communicators 212 and 214 configured to transmit concentration 220 to a receiver, such as a receiver at a remote hub or remote site, that evaluates each sampling location (from 152 and 154 to 156, such as Figure 1B In some embodiments, the concentration 220 can be determined relative to time.

[0075] In another embodiment of the helium-3 detection device 200 , the metal plate 110 is at least a portion of a rover base of the rover 102 .

[0076] The helium-3 detection apparatus 200 also contemplates that the metal plate 110 is located less than 10 centimeters from the granular surface 112A when the thermal neutron source 202 is emitting neutrons 222 .

[0077] The helium-3 detection device 200 contemplates an embodiment in which the metal plate 110 includes a handle 224 configured to be carried by at least one person or a robot.

[0078] The helium-3 detection device 200 contemplates an embodiment in which the metal plate 110 is attached to the low-gravity jumper 120 .

[0079] Another embodiment of the present invention contemplates a helium-3 detection system 200 that generally includes a thermal neutron detector 204 for sensing the number of neutrons 222 emitted from a thermal neutron source 202 to assess the helium-3 concentration in the regolith 112 or other granular soil. More specifically, the embodiment contemplates that the thermal neutron source 202 is configured to emit thermal neutrons 222 in all directions, wherein the thermal neutron detection system 204 is configured to detect the neutron concentration 220 of the thermal neutrons 222 backscattered from the granular soil 112. A neutron shield 206 is disposed between the thermal neutron source 202 and the thermal neutron detector 204 to isolate the neutrons detected from the regolith 112, thereby assessing the number or concentration of helium-3 in the regolith 112. The system may include a power source 210, such as a battery, to provide power to the thermal neutron source 202 and the thermal neutron detection system 204. The neutron shield 206 , thermal neutron source 202 , and thermal neutron detection system 204 are contemplated to be disposed on a metal plate 110 that is configured to be placed within 10 centimeters of a surface 112A of the granular soil 112 .

[0080] The helium-3 detection system 200 further contemplates that the neutron shield 206 is configured to block at least 90% of thermal neutrons 222 emitted from the thermal neutron source 202 that are aimed at the thermal neutron detection system 204 along the line of sight 218 .

[0081] The helium-3 detection system 200 further contemplates that the neutron concentration 220 detected by the thermal neutron detection system 204 is inversely proportional to the helium-3 concentration in the granular soil 112 .

[0082] The helium-3 detection system 200 contemplates an embodiment in which the neutron shield 206 is a boronized shield.

[0083] The helium-3 detection system embodiment 200 may also include a transmitter 214 configured to transmit the neutron concentration 220 to a remote receiver.

[0084] The helium-3 detection system 200 is contemplated to be moved to different locations (from 152 and 154 to 156, as shown) on the surface 112A of the celestial body 122 by means of a transport aircraft. Figure 1B ), to map out an area of ​​helium-3 concentration using a helium-3 detection system 200, the transporter being selected from a group consisting of a rover 102, a low-gravity jumper 120, or a robot (not shown).

[0085] The helium-3 detection system 200 contemplates a neutron shield 206 that is 1 to 4 inches thick, depending on the amount of neutron attenuation desired on the thermal neutron detection system side of the neutron shield 206 .

[0086] Another embodiment of the present invention contemplates an apparatus 200 for detecting helium-3 in a regolith 112 on the moon 122. The apparatus 200 may include a neutron source 202 configured to emit thermal neutrons 222, a neutron detector 204 configured to detect a neutron concentration 220 of neutrons 222 backscattered 220 from the regolith 112, and a neutron shield 206 disposed between the neutron source 202 and the neutron detector 204. The neutron shield 206 is configured to block at least some neutrons 222 in a line of sight 218 between the neutron source 202 and the neutron detector 204. The apparatus 200 may also include a power source 210 configured to provide power to the thermal neutron source 202, the thermal neutron detection system 204, and a transmitter 214. The transmitter 214 is configured to transmit the neutron concentration 220 to a remote receiver. Neutron shield 206, thermal neutron source 202, and thermal neutron detection system 204 are envisioned to be disposed on metal plate 110. Apparatus 200 is also envisioned to be moved to different locations (from 152 and 154 to 156, such as 157) on surface 112A of moon 122 via transporter 102 or 120. Figure 1B shown).

[0087] In the apparatus 200 , the neutron shield 206 is contemplated to be sufficiently thick and contain sufficient attenuating material, such as boron, to attenuate at least 95% of the neutrons 222 .

[0088] In the apparatus 200 , the neutron concentration 220 detected by the neutron detector 204 is inversely proportional to the helium-3 concentration in the regolith 112 .

[0089] These exemplary embodiments are not exhaustive of the embodiments presented in the entire description, but are merely examples of chains of embodiments consistent with the envisioned embodiments of the present invention. In other words, many other embodiments are described herein that are not necessarily shown in the device embodiments presented immediately above.

[0090] It should be understood that although the numerous features and advantages of various embodiments of the present invention and the details of the structure and function of various embodiments of the present invention are listed in the foregoing description, the present disclosure is only exemplary and changes can be made in details, especially in the structure and arrangement of components, as long as they are within the scope of the principles indicated by the broad general meaning of the terms expressed in the attached embodiments. For example, the orientation of the elements and plates can include other geometric shapes that are not explicitly shown in the above embodiments, but can maintain basically the same function without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention. Similarly, the materials and structures of the neutron shielding can be different, but still achieve the same purpose without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention. It should be further recognized that for mass spectrometers, their basic construction is well known in the field, and once a person skilled in the art has mastered the concepts disclosed in this article, the existing embodiments discussed can be modified. In addition, the electronic equipment and computing equipment that can realize the functions of the helium-3 detection system are not described in detail because they either already exist or can be easily constructed by a person skilled in the art.

[0091] Obviously, the present invention is well adapted to the objects and advantages mentioned, as well as those inherent therein. Although the presently preferred embodiments have been described for the purposes of this disclosure, many modifications may be made which will readily occur to those skilled in the art and are encompassed within the spirit of the disclosed invention.

Claims

1. A mass spectrometer device, comprising: Entrance; a detector housing including a detector plate; exit; a primary particle path defined between the inlet port and the detector plate, the primary particle path traversing the mass spectrometer device; an entry funnel comprising a funnel-shaped housing extending from the entry port to the exit port, the exit port being smaller than the entry port, the entry port directly interfacing with an open environment without obstruction, the entry port being configured to communicate with the open environment during operation; an ionizer adjacent the outlet, the ionizer configured to ionize elementary particles in a portion of the elementary particle path; an angled housing comprising polarized magnets configured to direct the elementary particles along the elementary particle path at an angle β + / - an offset; as well as A particulate surface disruptor is configured to release the elementary particles from a particulate surface external to the mass spectrometer device.

2. The mass spectrometer device of claim 1, wherein the mass spectrometer device does not contain a pressure chamber adapted to maintain a pressure lower than the open environment.

3. The mass spectrometer apparatus of claim 1, wherein the particle surface disruptor is a heating element.

4. The mass spectrometer apparatus of claim 1, wherein an outlet area of ​​the outlet is at least half of an inlet area of ​​the inlet.

5. The mass spectrometer apparatus of claim 1, wherein the elementary particles comprise helium-3 and the mass spectrometer is tuned for helium-3.

6. The mass spectrometer apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a movable carrier configured to support the mass spectrometer apparatus, the mass spectrometer apparatus being selected from the group consisting of a rover, a dispersion pod, a jumper, or a handheld carrier.

7. The mass spectrometer apparatus of claim 6, wherein the movable carrier is configured to position the access port within 6 inches of the granular surface.

8. The mass spectrometer apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a computer system configured to determine a neutron concentration of helium-3 in the granular soil at the first location and the second location based on the neutrons detected by the mass spectrometer apparatus.

9. The mass spectrometer apparatus of claim 8, further comprising a wireless communicator configured to transmit the concentration of helium-3 to the receiver.

10. A mass spectrometer system comprising: exit; an entry funnel comprising an entry port configured to receive base particles directly from an open environment, the entry funnel configured to direct the base particles to the outlet; detector; a channel extending from the inlet port through the mass spectrometer to the detector; an ionizer configured to ionize the elementary particles from the outlet; Angled housing; a polarized magnet located within the angled housing between the ionizer and the detector; a heating element configured to release the elementary particles from a granular surface external to the mass spectrometer system by means of heat; as well as A movable carrier is configured to position the access port at a location adjacent the granular surface. The mass spectrometer system of claim 10 , wherein the outlet port is smaller than the inlet port.

12. The mass spectrometer system of claim 10, wherein the inlet port communicates with the open environment during operation, the mass spectrometer system being free of a pressure chamber.

13. The mass spectrometer system of claim 10, further comprising an accelerator located between the ionizer and the polarizing magnet.

14. The mass spectrometer system of claim 10, wherein the polarized magnet is configured to direct the elementary particles along the channel at an angle β + / - an offset.

15. The mass spectrometer system of claim 10, wherein the mass spectrometer system is adjusted to determine a concentration of helium-3 in the particle surface at a first location and a second location.

16. The mass spectrometer system of claim 10, wherein the movable carrier is selected from the group consisting of a rover, a dispersion pod, a jumper, or a handheld carrier.

17. An open environment mass spectrometer device, comprising: a mass spectrometer having an inlet port and an inlet funnel configured to receive elementary particles directly from an open environment through the inlet port, the inlet funnel configured to direct the elementary particles into the mass spectrometer; a heating element configured to release the base particles from a regolith layer by means of heat, the regolith layer not being part of the open environment mass spectrometer apparatus; as well as A movable carrier is configured to position the access port within 12 inches of the topsoil layer.

Images