Extraterrestrial nanosecond neutron analysis and associated particle imaging

Abstract

The present application discloses a nanosecond neutron analysis and associated particle imaging system (NNA / API) and a gamma ray detector device (i.e., device) that utilizes associated element detection of titanium, iron and oxygen to determine the concentration of ilmenite or other minerals associated with He-3 in extraterrestrial celestial bodies. The device is used with a movable carrier in order to map the concentration of possible He-3 regions on extraterrestrial celestial bodies.

Description

[0001] Cross - Reference to Related Applications

[0002] This continuation application claims the priority and benefit of U.S. Patent No. 12,100,580, entitled LOCATING MINING SITES USING AN OPEN MASS SPECTROMETER, filed on January 8, 2024 and issued on September 24, 2024, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference; this U.S. patent, as a continuation - in - part application, claims the priority and benefit of U.S. Patent No. 12,044,636, entitled LOCATING MINING SITES USING NEUTRON DETECTION, filed on December 13, 2023 and issued on July 23, 2024, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention generally relates to using 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 target substances such as helium - 3 (He - 3) to be mined before conducting mining operations is of great value. Having a general understanding of the concentration of target elements within a mining site can effectively formulate more efficient strategies for extraction methods, thereby minimizing unnecessary losses of time and cost. By at least making a rough assessment of the concentration of the target substance, mining enterprises 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 for extracting the target substance but also reduces the damage to the entire mining site.

[0005] In addition, early knowledge of the target substance concentration has a significant impact on the economic feasibility of a mining project. An accurate assessment allows for an informed decision on whether to conduct mining, thereby avoiding costly attempts in cases where the concentration of the target substance may be too low to achieve a minimum return. By identifying areas with high target substance concentrations, mining operations can more effectively allocate their resources, directing investments to locations with higher concentrations, thereby maximizing their operational efficiency and profitability while minimizing time losses and unnecessary mining costs. Most importantly, the value of identifying the target substance concentration before mining lies in its ability to ensure a more efficient method for extracting the target substance.

[0006] Embodiments of the present invention generally aim at innovations related to this subject matter. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The present invention generally relates to a device for identifying helium-3 and other target substances from an extraterrestrial body in an extremely low-pressure environment.

[0008] In this context, some embodiments of the present invention envision a nanosecond neutron analysis and associated particle imaging device (NNA / API) having a gamma-ray detector device for detecting ilmenite (i.e., the device), the device including a transporter carrying the NNA / API and at least one gamma-ray detector, and a cosmic radiation shield. The transporter is defined by a top end and a bottom end, wherein the bottom end is configured to dock with the surface of an extraterrestrial body, and the transporter is configured to move to different locations on the surface of the extraterrestrial body; the NNA / API includes a neutron emitter configured to aim from the bottom end towards the surface of the extraterrestrial body. The NNA / API does not contain a vacuum chamber adapted to maintain a pressure lower than the ambient environment of the device. The at least one gamma-ray detector together with signal processing electronics includes a gamma-ray detection system. The gamma-ray detection system may also include an on-board computer that allows for the active identification of typical gamma rays (including those from titanium and / or iron), and in some cases, the identification of ratios of these elements consistent with the presence of ilmenite. The device also includes a cosmic radiation shield that covers the NNA / API and the at least one gamma-ray detector, wherein the cosmic radiation shield is configured to shield at least a portion of cosmic radiation including cosmic gamma radiation and cosmic neutron radiation. The cosmic radiation shield is provided at the top end of the transporter. The device also includes an energy source configured to supply energy to the NNA / API and the at least one gamma-ray detector. The device also includes a non-transitory memory connected to the gamma-ray detection system, the non-transitory memory being configured to store gamma-ray energy information and / or elemental concentration information. A transmitter in the device is configured to send the information to a remote receiver.

[0009] In another aspect of the present invention, some embodiments contemplate an ilmenite detector device employing correlated particle imaging, the ilmenite detector device including a rover, a NNA / API, and a gamma ray detector. The NNA / API includes a neutron emitter configured to aim a neutron cone from the rover towards the surface of an extraterrestrial body. The NNA / API does not include a vacuum chamber. The gamma ray detector is configured to detect titanium concentration and iron concentration within 12 inches of the surface of the extraterrestrial body. The gamma ray detector is configured to detect the titanium concentration by means of gamma rays emitted from the surface of the extraterrestrial body due to neutrons from the neutron cone impinging on the surface of the extraterrestrial body. The ilmenite detector device further includes a cosmic radiation shield, a computing processor, and a transmitter. The cosmic radiation shield covers the NNA / API and the gamma ray detector to protect them from at least a portion of cosmic gamma radiation and cosmic neutron radiation. The computing processor is configured to determine whether the titanium concentration and the iron concentration include a ratio consistent with ilmenite. The transmitter is configured to transmit the titanium concentration and the iron concentration to a remote receiver. The rover is configured to transport the ilmenite detector device to different locations on the surface of the extraterrestrial body.

[0010] Another embodiment of the present invention contemplates a method that includes: moving a transporter from a first location on the moon to a second location; emitting a neutron beam of a plurality of neutrons at the surface at the first location; detecting gamma rays from decaying, unstable titanium atoms and iron atoms bombarded by the plurality of neutrons of the neutron beam; determining a ratio of titanium atoms to iron atoms from the gamma rays; and verifying that the ratio corresponds to ilmenite.

[0011] In this case, some other embodiments of the present invention envision a mass spectrometer device that includes a mass spectrometer carried on a movable carrier. The mass spectrometer includes a basic particle path that is defined to start from an inlet and terminate at a detector plate (the basic particle path traverses the mass spectrometer transversely). The mass spectrometer also includes an inlet funnel that has a funnel-shaped housing extending from the inlet to an outlet, where the outlet is smaller than the inlet. The inlet directly interfaces with the open environment unobstructed and is configured to communicate with the open environment during operation. The mass spectrometer also includes an ion generator adjacent to the outlet, where the ion generator of the mass spectrometer is configured to ionize basic particles (such as atoms or single molecules) in a portion of the basic particle path. The mass spectrometer also includes a detector housing and an angled housing, the detector housing includes a detector plate, the angled housing has a deflecting magnet that is configured to direct the basic particles along the basic particle path at an angle β + / - a certain offset (depending on the mass of the basic particles), and the offset is, for example, less than 10 degrees. The mass spectrometer device and in some embodiments the inlet funnel have a particle surface breaker that is configured to release the basic particles from the particle surface outside the mass spectrometer device. The mass spectrometer device also has a movable carrier that supports, or otherwise holds, the mass spectrometer. The movable carrier is configured to position the inlet above the external particle surface.

[0012] Another embodiment of the present invention envisions a mass spectrometer system that includes a mass spectrometer, a heating element, and a movable carrier. The mass spectrometer may include a channel that extends from an inlet through the mass spectrometer system to a detector. The mass spectrometer may also include an inlet funnel that includes an inlet that is configured to directly receive basic particles from the open environment. The inlet funnel is configured to direct the basic particles to an outlet. The mass spectrometer may also include an ion generator that is configured to ionize the basic particles from the outlet. The mass spectrometer also includes a deflecting magnet that is located within an angled housing between the ionizer and the detector. The heating element may be located within the mass spectrometer or at other locations in the system, and the heating element is configured to release the basic particles from the particle surface outside the mass spectrometer system by means of heat. The system envisions a movable carrier that is configured to position the inlet in a location near the external particle surface.

[0013] The mass spectrometer device is envisioned to include a mass spectrometer positioned and supported by a movable carrier. The mass spectrometer can have an inlet funnel that is configured to receive base particles directly from an open environment through an inlet opening. The inlet funnel is configured to direct the base particles into the mass spectrometer. The device can also include a heating element that is configured to release base particles from a topsoil layer by means of heat, where the topsoil layer is not part of the open environment mass spectrometer device. Some embodiments envision the mass spectrometer including the heating element. The device also includes a movable carrier that is configured to position the inlet opening above the topsoil layer (within 12 inches of the surface of the topsoil layer).

[0014] In this case, some other embodiments of the present invention envision a helium-3 detection device as shown, which includes a thermal neutron source and a thermal neutron detector. More specifically, the thermal neutron source can include a thermal neutron emitter encapsulated in a hydrogen-rich material, where the thermal neutron source is configured to emit thermal neutrons in all directions. The thermal neutron detector can 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 of the thermal neutrons emitted from the thermal neutron source that are aimed at the thermal neutron detector (e.g., attenuate 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 power the thermal neutron source and the thermal neutron detector. The metal plate has a perimeter, i.e., the sidewall boundary of the metal plate shown by four sides. The thermal neutron source, the thermal neutron detector, and the neutron shield are disposed within the perimeter of the metal plate.

[0015] Optionally, another embodiment of the present invention envisions 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 evaluate the concentration of helium-3 in a topsoil layer or other granular soil. More specifically, this embodiment envisions the thermal neutron source being configured to emit thermal neutrons in all directions, where the thermal neutron detection system is configured to detect the neutron concentration of the thermal neutrons backscattered from the granular soil. A neutron shield is placed between the thermal neutron source and the thermal neutron detector to isolate the neutrons detected from the topsoil layer, thereby evaluating the amount or concentration of helium-3 in the topsoil layer. The system can include a power source such as a battery to power the thermal neutron source and the thermal neutron detection system. The neutron shield, the thermal neutron source, and the thermal neutron detection system are envisioned to be disposed on a metal plate that is configured to be placed within 10 centimeters of the surface of the granular soil.

[0016] Another alternative 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 of the neutrons in the line of sight between the neutron source and the neutron detector. The device may further include a power source configured to power the thermal neutron source, the thermal neutron detection system, and a transmitter. The transmitter is configured to send 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 transport vehicle. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] Figure 1A is a line drawing of an embodiment of a transport vehicle and a helium-3 detector consistent with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0018] Figure 1B is a schematic diagram of mapping an area on the moon using a helium-3 detector device carried on a hopper consistent with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0019] Figures 2A-2C is a line drawing showing a helium-3 detector device consistent with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0020] Figure 2D is a block diagram showing an embodiment of a thermal neutron source along section line B-B consistent with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0021] Figure 2E is a line drawing of a cross-section of a helium-3 detector device along section line A-A consistent with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0022] Figure 3 is a line drawing of another embodiment of a helium-3 detector device with a handle consistent with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] Figures 4A-4C shows a helium-3 detector device using an open environment mass spectrometer embodiment consistent with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0024] Figures 5A-5D is a line drawing showing different views of a mass spectrometer embodiment 400 consistent with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 6A is a line drawing showing an embodiment of the components of the mass spectrometer 400 in operation;

[0026] Figure 6B is a block diagram of a method of using an open environment mass spectrometer;

[0027] Figure 7 A line drawing exemplarily showing an orbital deployment vehicle for deploying a mass spectrometer dispersal module on the lunar surface, which is consistent with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figures 8A-8E A line drawing of another embodiment of a He-3 detector device adopting an NNA / API and a γ-ray detector system, which is consistent with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0029] Figure 9 A line drawing schematically showing an NNA / API, which is consistent with an embodiment of the present invention; and

[0030] Figure 10 A method for obtaining He-3 on an extraterrestrial body by utilizing titanium association, which is consistent with an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed implementation manners

[0031] First of all, the present disclosure is given only by way of example and not by way of limitation. Therefore, although the implementation means described herein are for the convenience of explanation and are shown and described for exemplary embodiments, it can be understood that: the principles herein can be equally applied to other similar structures related to the subject matter within the field of the present invention. Phrases such as "in one embodiment", "according to one embodiment", etc. generally mean that the specific features, structures or characteristics following the phrase are included in at least one embodiment of the present invention and may 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 states that a certain component or feature "can", "is able to", "may" or "might" include or have a certain characteristic, then the specific component or feature is not necessarily required to include or have that characteristic. The terms "having", "carrying", "including" and "comprising" used herein are regarded as open languages and are synonymous with the term "including". In addition, the term "substantially" used herein is intended to emphasize that the characteristics of something should be interpreted within an acceptable tolerance known to those skilled in the art to conform to 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 limiting sense. Therefore, if "substantially" does not specify a specific + / - value, it is assumed that substantially means within the range of + / - 2.5% of the exact value. The term "connected to" used herein should be interpreted as the first element being physically linked or attached to the second element, rather than as an "additional means" as in "means-plus-function". In fact, unless the term explicitly uses "means" followed by the gerund form of a verb, the term should not be interpreted according to 35 U.S.C.§112(f). In the following, the same reference numerals may be used to identify similar or identical structures.

[0032] Regarding the accompanying drawings, it should be noted that: The figures are not necessarily drawn to scale and are substantially schematic 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 commonly understood by an onlooker, 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 operate, for example, relying on gravity are specifically described otherwise.

[0033] Embodiments are described herein for identifying target substances in an extremely low pressure and low gravity environment. An extremely low pressure environment or a very 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 up to 4 m / sec 2 . Aspects of the present invention contemplate mining 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 below their surface, and depending on the size of the extraterrestrial body, they generally have a gravitational force significantly lower than that on Earth.

[0034] Although embodiments of the present invention can be used in conjunction with many different extraterrestrial bodies, one object of the present invention is to focus on mining gaseous atoms and molecules (substances) from the Moon, particularly focusing on helium-3 (He-3). The atmosphere of the Moon (the surface boundary exosphere) has a pressure of approximately 3×10 -15 bar and a temperature range that can be between 20° and 400° Kelvin. To continue exploring the Moon and maintain long-term habitation on the Moon, extracting or otherwise mining important target substances (including gaseous substances) such as oxygen, nitrogen, hydrogen, and helium from the Moon can reduce the dependence on transporting such gaseous substances from Earth. In addition, helium-3 (He-3) is a light stable isotope of helium, which has two protons and one neutron and is expected to be an important component in fusion reactions, and the content of helium-3 on the Moon is much higher than that on Earth. In some estimates, the content of helium-3 on the Moon is more than a thousand times higher than that on Earth, which makes the Moon a better target for obtaining helium-3.

[0035] Some embodiments of the present invention contemplate identifying the concentration of target substances on or within a few feet below the lunar surface by detecting the concentration of neutrons backscattered from the lunar regolith (or simply "regolith"). Alternative embodiments use an open environment mass spectrometer to sample the concentration of helium-3 from the lunar regolith. In this way, the target substances to be mined (such as He-3) can be mapped within the mining area of interest to more efficiently mine the areas where the target substances are most abundant.

[0036] Accordingly, some embodiments of the present invention contemplate a helium-3 detector device that generally includes a neutron shield disposed between a thermal neutron source and three thermal neutron detectors, with the thermal neutron source, the thermal neutron detectors, and the neutron shield all resting 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 of the thermal neutrons from the neutron source will backscatter 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 of the thermal neutrons will be absorbed by the helium-3, thus reducing the detected count rate. When integrated into a detection vehicle, the device can be moved around and compare the count rates at each location, or the detection vehicle can crawl slowly along the ground. In this way, the high and low levels of helium-3 in the topsoil can be mapped.

[0037] Other embodiments of the present invention contemplate a He-3 detector device that generally includes a mass spectrometer having an inlet funnel that is configured to receive (sniff) helium-3 directly from an open environment through an inlet opening. The inlet funnel is configured to direct the helium-3 into the mass spectrometer. The device also includes a heating element that is configured to release the helium-3 from the topsoil by means of heat. A movable carrier is configured to position the inlet opening above the topsoil to obtain a sample of the helium-3.

[0038] Other embodiments of the present invention contemplate a He-3 detector device that generally includes a gamma-ray detector coupled to a nanosecond neutron analysis and associated particle imaging system (NNA / API) that identifies elements and minerals closely associated with He-3, such as ilmenite that captures He-3. A movable carrier is configured to position the NNA / API and the gamma-ray detector above the topsoil on the moon to detect elements associated with He-3. The concentration data of the detected elements associated with helium-3 can be processed by means of a computer to map high helium-3 concentration regions on the moon, thereby simplifying and making efficient the extraction of helium-3.

[0039] The different embodiments for directly or indirectly detecting He-3 include many interchangeable elements and methods, such as movable carriers, electronics, power units, communication devices, etc. Accordingly, the concepts introduced and described for the various embodiments in different figures can be combined in an obvious manner to complete embodiment options that may not be presented in any given figure.

[0040] Referring to the accompanying drawings, Figure 1AIs a line drawing of a transport vehicle and a helium-3 detector embodiment consistent with an embodiment of the present invention. The transport vehicle and helium-3 detector embodiment 100 generally includes a helium-3 (He-3) detector 200, which is supported or otherwise carried by a detection vehicle 102. The detection vehicle 102 includes a traveling device, which in this embodiment is wheels 106 mounted on a suspension system 105, but the traveling device can also simply include tracks, robotic legs, or some other type of traveling device 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 a metal plate 110 and is substantially enclosed by a shield 108. An antenna 212 extending from the shield 108 is connected to transmitter electronics and can be connected to a transceiver (not shown) housed in a transmitter 214. The antenna 212 facilitates at least one-way communication with a receiver remote from the detection vehicle 102, for example, by means of radio frequency RF. Other embodiments contemplate integrating the helium-3 detector 200 with a low-gravity hopper 120 as Figure 1B shown, where the low-gravity hopper 120 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 hopper 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.

[0041] Figure 1B Is a schematic diagram of using a helium-3 detector device carried on a hopper to map an area on the moon 122 consistent with an embodiment of the present invention. This embodiment contemplates a hopper 120 that is capable of taking off from a first location 152 after evaluating the helium-3 concentration at the first location 152, landing at a second location 154 and evaluating the helium-3 concentration at the second location 154, and then taking off again to a third location 156 to evaluate the helium-3 concentration at the third location 156. In this way, a portion of the helium-3 concentration on the lunar surface 112A can be mapped to identify the richest and most ideal locations for helium-3 extraction. Since the gravity on the moon 122 is approximately 1 / 6 of the earth's gravity, the energy required for the hopper 120 to take off (and land) is significantly reduced. The hopper 120 can be a spring-loaded vehicle or pod and can use gyroscopes or jet packs to maintain horizontal (stay upright during the jump). Optionally, the hopper 120 can be equipped with rockets to jump from location 154 to location 156.

[0042] Figures 2A-2C Is a line drawing showing a helium-3 detector device 200 (which can be used interchangeably with the abbreviations "helium-3 detector" or "device 200") consistent with an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2AIs an isometric line drawing of the main components of the helium-3 detector 200, as Figure 2A shown, the helium-3 detector 200 includes a neutron shield 206 disposed between a thermal neutron source 202 and three thermal neutron detectors 204. The neutron shield 206 blocks the line of sight 218 of some 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 neutron shield 206 is envisioned to be two 1-2 inch thick boronated HDPE (high density polyethylene) produced by EMCO Industrial Plastics, LLC, headquartered in Cedar Grove, New Jersey. Boronated HDPE is specifically designed for nuclear shielding applications. The material uses 5% by weight of boron to shield neutrons 222 in a variety of applications, including high-intensity X-rays, cancer treatment facilities, hospitals, nuclear submarines, and nuclear power plants. A 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 neutron 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 222 from reaching the thermal neutron detectors 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 detectors 204, the battery pack 210, the antenna 212, and the antenna connection wire 213 are all supported by a metal plate 110.

[0043] Figure 2B Is an exemplary illustration of Figure 2A the helium-3 detector device 200 in

[0044] The thermal neutron detector device 204 is sensitive to the number of neutrons 222 impinging on the detector device 204 and is thus capable of providing information about the neutron concentration it encounters. There are several commercially available thermal neutron detectors 204, including BF3 proportional counters manufactured by Mirion Technologies, headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia. The thermal neutron detector 204 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 222 react with the isotope boron-10, emitting alpha particles that create 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 cause secondary ionization. This so-called "gas amplification" proportionally increases the amount of charge generated in the tube.

[0045] Figure 2C is a top view line drawing of the helium-3 detector device 200, showing the elements relative to the sectional lines A-A and B-B. For reference, the computer electronics housing 216 is shown, which houses the computing electronics required to run the various electrical components contained in the helium-3 detector 200, and the transmitter 214 houses a communication transmitter or more likely a transceiver. The antenna 212 is connected to the communication circuitry in the transmitter 214. Also shown are the battery 210, the thermal neutron source 202, the shield, and the thermal neutron detector device 204. The thermal neutron detector device 204 includes three detectors in this embodiment, but may also have as few as one detector or more detectors as needed. The sectional line A-A bisects substantially the metal plate 110, the thermal neutron source 202, the shield, and the thermal neutron detection device 204. The sectional line B-B, orthogonal to the sectional line A-A, bisects the thermal neutron source 202.

[0046] Figure 2DFIG. 0 is a block diagram showing an embodiment of a thermal neutron source 202 along section line B-B in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. This embodiment of the thermal neutron source 202 may include an americium-beryllium (AmBe) neutron source (core) 232 encapsulated within a hydrogen-rich housing 230, which in this embodiment is envisioned as a polyethylene housing. The polyethylene housing 230 reduces the energy of neutrons 222 by colliding with hydrogen nuclei in the polyethylene, thereby thermalizing the neutrons 222. 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 are commercially available from Adelphi Technology, Inc. headquartered in Redwood City, California. Accordingly, some embodiments of the present invention envision the thermal neutron source 202 as an off-the-shelf, readily commercially available thermal neutron source.

[0047] Figure 2E FIG. 4 is a line drawing of a cross-section along section line A-A of a helium-3 detector device 200 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. It is known that helium-3 absorbs neutrons 222. Accordingly, the concentration of neutrons 222 that penetrate the helium-3 is correspondingly reduced. In this device 200, some of the neutrons 222 emitted from the thermal neutron source 202 as shown by arrow 219 are backscattered from the topsoil layer 112 into the thermal neutron detector 204 (see narrow arrow 220), while some of the neutrons 222 in arrow 219 are absorbed by the helium-3 present in the topsoil layer 112. Accordingly, the concentration of helium-3 in the topsoil layer 112 will be inversely proportional to the concentration of neutrons 222 detected by the thermal neutron detector 204 relative to the neutrons 222 emitted by the thermal neutron source 202. In other words, the higher the concentration of helium-3 in the topsoil layer 112, the fewer the number of neutrons 222 that reach the thermal neutron detector 204, as shown by the narrow arrow 220. The neutron shield 206 blocks neutrons 222 in the line of sight 218 of the neutron detector 204 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 and does not change the number of neutrons 222 (emitted by the thermal neutron source 202) that penetrate into the topsoil layer 112. According to this device 200, the concentration of neutrons 222 detected by the thermal neutron detector 204 is compared with the concentration of neutrons 222 generated by the thermal neutron source 202 in order to provide an indication of the concentration of helium-3 in the region of the topsoil layer 112. Although it may not be possible to obtain an accurate quantity of helium-3, a relative quantity can be obtained, which is sufficient to identify and map areas of high interest for helium-3 mining on the moon 122 based on sampling of different regions / areas on the moon 122. Data collection and calculations can be performed by an electronic computer system 216 on the helium-3 detector device 200.

[0048] Figure 3 is a line drawing of another embodiment of a helium-3 detector device 200 including a handle 224, which can be used for manual or robotic carrying, or otherwise transporting the helium-3 detector device 200 from one location to another.

[0049] Figures 4A-4C Shows a helium-3 detector device using an open environment mass spectrometer embodiment consistent with an embodiment of the present invention. Here, the mass spectrometer device 300 is open to the environment 405, which means that there is no pressure chamber surrounding the mass spectrometer 400, but rather the mass spectrometer 400 operates at ambient pressure around the mass spectrometer device 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 essential part of or associated with a conventional mass spectrometer. Figure 4A is a front view line drawing of a mass spectrometer device 300, which generally includes a rover 102 or some other movable carrier, such as a dispenser pod (not shown, but multiple dispenser pods can be released and spread over a large area of the moon 122, such as from hundreds of square meters to hundreds of square kilometers), Figure 1B the hopper 120 in Figure 3 the hand-held carrier 224, etc., all of which movable carriers are capable of holding the mass spectrometer 400. As shown, the rover 102 houses most of the mass spectrometer 400 in the rover hood 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 concentration samples of helium-3 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 intended recipients of the data. The mass spectrometer 400 inhales (or sniffs) helium-3 through an inlet 434 (see Figure 5C ) at the large end of the inlet funnel 402. The inlet funnel 402 (inlet funnel edge 409) is located near the regolith surface 112A at a closely proximate distance 408. The proximate distance 408 is herein defined as less than 12 inches. In some embodiments, the distance 408 between the inlet funnel 402 and the regolith surface 112A is preferably less than 6 inches, and the inlet 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 marked for reference.

[0050] Figure 4Bis a side elevation line drawing of the mass spectrometer apparatus 300, with the probe hood 108 removed from the probe vehicle 102 to reveal components associated with the frame 302. The mass spectrometer 400 is shown with most of it suspended from the probe vehicle floor 110, except for the inlet funnel 402, which extends from the floor 110 to a height less than 12 inches above the topsoil surface 112A. As shown in more detail in conjunction with Figure 5A the inlet funnel 402 is connected to the funnel adapter 404, which is attached to the ion generator and accelerator housing 412, the angled magnet housing 414, and the detector housing 422. The suspension 105, wheels 106, and antenna 212 are marked for reference.

[0051] Figure 4C is an isometric line drawing of the mass spectrometer apparatus 300, with the probe hood 108 removed from the probe vehicle 102 to reveal components associated with the frame 302. An overhead view of the mass spectrometer 400 is presented together with the computer system 216 and the transmitter 214, which has an antenna 212 and an antenna connection line 213. In this embodiment, the battery pack 210 connected to the floor 110 is configured to provide power to the probe vehicle 102 and its attached electronics. As previously mentioned, the power supply can be augmented by renewable energy sources such as solar panels (not shown) on the probe hood 108. In this embodiment, the 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 probe vehicle 102.

[0052] Figures 5A-5D is a line drawing showing different views of a mass spectrometer embodiment 400 consistent with an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 5A is an isometric view of the mass spectrometer 400 showing the basic particle path 401 represented by the thick arrow. The basic particle path 401 is so named because it is the path followed by the basic particles 460, which are defined by atoms and single molecules, as they flow through the mass spectrometer 400. The basic particle path 401 begins at the inlet 434 of the inlet funnel 402, traverses the funnel adapter 404 laterally, enters the ion generator and accelerator housing 412, and then passes through the angled magnet housing 414 to reach the detector 464 in the detector housing 422 (see Figure 5D ). As shown, the inlet funnel 402 includes a funnel-shaped housing 403 that extends from the inlet 434 to the outlet 435 at the funnel adapter 404 (see Figure 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 central 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 vertex of the angled housing 414 to redirect the path of the base particle 460 (helium-3 in this case) towards the detector 464. The redirected path of the base particle 460 is β + / - a certain offset, and the offset depends on the mass of the base particle 460. The offset can be less than 10 degrees.

[0053] Figure 5B is a bottom view of the mass spectrometer 400, which prominently shows the inlet 434 of the funnel. As shown, the inlet funnel 402 includes a heating element 430 or other particulate surface breaker, and other particulate surface breakers are, for example, lasers, ultrasonic transmitters, microwave transmitters, or other exciters capable of releasing helium-3 from the particulate soil / topsoil layer 112. The heating element 430 is powered by electrical leads 436. As shown, the funnel inlet 434 is defined by the funnel inlet edge 409. A filter 432, such as a HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filter, provided in the outlet 435 is also shown. The filter 432 is provided at (or near) the outlet 435 to filter out topsoil or unwanted solid particles 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.

[0054] Figure 5C is an isometric line drawing of the inlet funnel 402 and the funnel joint 404, showing the base particle path 401 leading to the inlet 434 and discharging from the funnel joint 404. The outlet 435 of the funnel is hidden and thus shown as a dashed line. The heating element 430 is shown as slightly protruding from the funnel inlet edge 409.

[0055] Figure 5Dis an exploded view of a mass spectrometer 400 consistent with an embodiment of the present invention. For the inlet funnel device 402, a heating element 430 and a filter 432 extend from the inlet funnel device 402. On the left side of the figure, an ion generator 450 with ion generator leads 410A and 410B, a basic particle accelerator 452, a shielding plate 454, and a basic particle aperture 456 are shown extending from the ion generator and accelerator housing 412. A magnet device 416 is shown extending behind an angled magnet housing 414. The magnet device 416 generally includes a first split-pole magnet 470 and a second split-pole magnet 472, and the first split-pole magnet 470 and the second split-pole magnet 472 are separated by a gap 474. Helium-3, which is a basic particle 460 in this embodiment, is aimed at the gap 474 and redirected by the split-pole magnets 470 and 472 (at an angle β plus or minus a certain offset) when passing through the post-magnet adjustment aperture 462. The redirected ionized basic particle 460B passes through the post-magnet adjustment aperture 462 in the post-magnet adjustment plate 461 along a path leading to the detector plate 464. A detector probe 420 picks up the signal of helium-3 from the detector plate 464 and transfers the signal information to the computing system 216.

[0056] Figure 6A is a line drawing showing an embodiment of the components of the mass spectrometer 400 in operation. The described embodiment is a general explanation of the basic elements of the mass spectrometer 400, and these basic elements may include more elements or exclude some elements according to a specific design to improve efficiency, which will be understood by those skilled in the art. Figure 6A The general explanation of Figure 6B is described based on a block diagram. The funnel inlet edge 409 is positioned at a distance 408 near the surface 112A of the topsoil layer, and the distance 408 is defined as less than 12 inches (step 480). A heater 430, which is an embodiment of a granular surface breaker, heats the topsoil layer 112 by radiation 475, thereby releasing the basic particles 460 retained in or on the topsoil layer 112. Some embodiments contemplate a shield (not shown) with an edge 409 that extends from the inlet funnel 402 to the surface 112A of the topsoil layer to shield and better collect a higher concentration of the released basic particles 460.

[0057] Continue to refer to Figure 6A, some of the released elementary particles 460 are excited by heat 475 and pass through into the funnel 402 and the funnel fitting 404 and into the ion generator housing 412 (step 482). The elementary particles 460 are directed to the ionization region in the ion generator 450, where electrons are emitted to bombard the elementary particles 460, thereby generating 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 pores 456 in the accelerator regulating plate 454. The accelerated ionized elementary particles 460A rush towards the gap 474 between the polarizing magnets 470 and 472 (step 486). The polarizing magnets 470 and 472 redirect or otherwise bend the trajectory of the ionized elementary particles 160A at a predictable angle β + / - a certain offset (depending on the mass of the ionized elementary particles 160A) in the angled magnet housing 414 (step 488). This embodiment includes a rear magnet regulating plate 461 having rear magnet regulating pores 462 that separate the target redirected ionized elementary particles 160B (step 490). In the case of helium-3, the rear magnet regulating plate 461 has rear magnet regulating pores 462 that separate the redirected ionized helium-3 160B. The separated redirected ionized elementary particles 160B, such as helium-3, are detected by the detector plate 464, and the detector plate 464 transmits the number / concentration of the elementary particles 160B at the sampling location in the topsoil 112 (step 492). As the exploration vehicle 102 or other movable carrier supporting the mass spectrometer 400 moves from one location 152 to another location 154, for example, the relative / comparative concentration of the target elementary particles 160 (such as helium-3) can be established and these concentrations are stored at least in the mass spectrometer device 300 without transmitting them to a remote receiver (not shown) via the antenna 212 (step 494). Comparing the concentrations does not require the exact number of the target elementary particles 160 in the sampling area, but rather the corresponding concentration of the target elementary particles 160, such as helium-3, to better locate high-yield areas for mining.

[0058] Figure 7is a line drawing illustrating an orbital deployment vehicle deploying 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, disposable 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 also contemplated to be 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 corresponding mass spectrometer dispersion modules 330 reach the lunar surface 112A.

[0059] Figures 8A-8E is a line drawing of another embodiment of a He-3 detector assembly using a nanosecond neutron analysis and associated particle imaging system (NNA / API) as a neutron source and a gamma ray (γ) detector system consistent with an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 8A , the He-3 detector apparatus 500 generally includes a rover 102 or some other transporter as described above, the rover 102 being configured to transport the NNA / API 502 and the gamma-ray detector system 504 to various locations on the moon 122 or some other extraterrestrial body to search for sufficient concentrations of He-3 for mining. As shown, the NNA / API 502 and the gamma-ray detector system 504 are located at the floor 510 of the bottom end 508 of the rover 102. The rover 102 is shown without Figure 1A The detector vehicle cover 108 is shown in the figure to better illustrate the components used for the He-3 detector device 500. At the top 506 of the device 500 is a cosmic radiation shield 512 covering the NNA / API 502 and the gamma ray detector system 504. The cosmic radiation shield 512 blocks at least a portion of the cosmic gamma radiation and cosmic neutron radiation from more or less above the device 500, which at least a portion constitutes noise in the detector system 504. More specifically, the cosmic gamma rays and any additional gamma rays generated by the cosmic neutron radiation are not controlled, so these rays are just noise to the gamma ray detector 504. As shown in the figure, the cosmic radiation shield 512 also serves as a support platform for the battery 210, the electronic devices and computing system 516 that operate or help operate the device 500. Also shown is a communication housing 214, which has an antenna 212 and an antenna connection line 213 extending from the antenna 212. The shock absorber 104, the suspension 105 and the wheel 106 are shown for reference.

[0060] Figure 8B is Figure 8A Side view line drawing of the He-3 detector device 500. As shown, an NNA / API 502 and a plurality of gamma-ray detectors 504 are provided. The NNA / API 502 aims neutrons 222 in the downward direction 519 penetrating the topsoil layer 112, and the gamma-ray detectors 504 detect the gamma rays 528 of interest from the atoms bombarded by neutrons in the topsoil layer 112 on either side of the NNA / API 502. The bottom plate 510 is approximately 12 inches from the topsoil surface 112A (as shown by the distance arrow 514 in Figure 8C ), however other embodiments contemplate the bottom plate 510 being greater than 12 inches or less than 12 inches from the topsoil surface 112A, such as 2 inches or 2 feet from the topsoil surface 112a. In this embodiment, the cosmic radiation shield 512 includes a plurality of laminates, however a non-laminated cosmic radiation shield may be employed without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention. As shown, the cosmic radiation shield 512 covers and shields the NNA / API 502 and the gamma-ray detectors 504 from cosmic radiation emanating from above the device 100 at 516. Some embodiments contemplate not providing the cosmic radiation shield 512, but rather relying on the time window for neutron emission and gamma-ray detection. The communication housing 214 is also prominently shown on top of the cosmic radiation shield 512. The communication housing 214 has an antenna 212 and an antenna connection line 213 extending from the antenna 212.

[0061] Figure 8C is Figure 8A Front view line drawing of the He-3 detector device 500. The exploration vehicle 102 is shown on the topsoil layer 112, where the bottom plate 510 is separated from the surface 112A by a distance 514 between 2 inches and 24 inches, but as described above, other distances may also be contemplated. From this perspective, a plurality of gamma-ray detectors 504 are shown below the cosmic radiation shield 512, and the cosmic radiation shield 512 is shown as supporting the battery 210 and other electronics.

[0062] Figure 8D is Figure 8ABottom view line drawing of the He-3 detector device 500. As shown, an opening 518 is provided in the bottom plate 512 to provide an unobstructed path for neutrons 222 emitted from the NNA / API 502. The NNA / API 502 is located at the center of a plurality of gamma-ray detectors 504. In this embodiment, a plurality of gamma-ray detectors 504 are provided to increase the detection signal fidelity, because the probability of detecting backscattered gamma rays 528 from the shocked target material (such as ilmenite 530) in the topsoil layer 112 is increased. The gamma rays 528 are generated by neutrons 526 emitted by the NNA / API 502 interacting with the topsoil layer 112. Some embodiments contemplate not providing the bottom plate opening 518, depending on the neutrons 526 emitted and the returned gamma rays 528 simply passing through the bottom plate 512.

[0063] Figure 8E is a cross-sectional view of the He-3 detector device 500 along the cross-sectional dissection line C-C Figure 8D of.

[0064] The NNA / API 502 is commercially available from multiple sources, including the API 120 neutron generator from ThermoFisher Scientific headquartered in Waltham, Massachusetts

[0065] or the DT 108 neutron generator from Adelphi Technology Inc. It should be understood that these NNA / APIs can be used "as is" or can be modified to not have a vacuum pump and a vacuum chamber to take advantage of the low ambient pressure (such as less than 7 millitorr) on the moon 122 or an extraterrestrial body that is substantially atmosphere-free compared to the Earth.

[0066] From a high-level perspective, one type of NNA / API can be a deuterium-tritium particle generator, which can include a deuterium filament (i.e., a mass rich in deuterium) and an electron-generating cathode. The deuterium filament is heated and a magnetic field is applied, and the electron-generating cathode strips the electrons of deuterium atoms to charge the deuterium atoms. The magnetic field accelerates the charged deuterium atoms to a tritium target (i.e., a mass rich in tritium), which results in deuterium / tritium collisions. Although the collisions disperse neutrons in all directions, a pseudo-beam associated with alpha particles detected by a position-sensitive alpha detector can be selected. By powering (energizing) the NNA / API, neutrons are continuously generated. By adjusting the current passing through the filament, the generation of neutrons can be controlled.

[0067] In operation, when deuterium fuses with tritium in the tritium target, neutrons of 14.1 MeV and alpha particles of 3.5 MeV are produced. The position and arrival time of the alpha particles are measured. Neutrons that penetrate the topsoil 112 collide with atoms in the topsoil, thereby putting their respective atomic nuclei in an excited state. When each atomic nucleus decays to the ground state, one or more gamma rays are emitted. The energy and time of the gamma rays are measured by gamma ray detectors, which in this embodiment are tuned to be suitable for at least titanium, which is one of the constituents of the mineral ilmenite (FeTiO 3 ). When alpha particles and gamma rays are observed within a very small time window (less than 80 ns), they are considered to originate from the same fusion reaction. The velocities of the neutrons and gamma rays are known, and the trajectories of the associated alpha particles (and thus the direction of motion of the neutrons is opposite to that of the neutrons) are also known, so the location of the neutron-nucleus interaction can be calculated. The energy of the gamma rays is unique to the particular type of atom that was temporarily fused with the neutron, and can thus be used to identify the element / atom of interest, in this case ilmenite. Ilmenite is associated with He-3. By many observed interactions, a three-dimensional map of ilmenite can be calculated. In some embodiments, all of the detectors 504 are tuned to be suitable for titanium. In other embodiments, at least some of the detectors 504 are tuned to be suitable for titanium, and other detectors 504 are tuned to be suitable for iron. In other embodiments, the detectors 504 are tuned to be suitable for both titanium and iron. Additionally, other embodiments envision the detectors 504 being tuned to be suitable for titanium, iron, and oxygen, where the electronics of the device are capable of determining the ratio of the detected elements to imply the presence of ilmenite. In this way, regions of the moon 122 can be mapped with the concentration of titanium and possibly ilmenite.

[0068] Figure 9is a line diagram schematically showing an NNA / API consistent with an embodiment of the present invention. As shown, the NNA / API 502 includes a target chamber 520 having a phosphor-coated window that is connected to a photodiode. The photodiode detects the time of an alpha particle hitting the phosphor window 522 via a position-sensitive photomultiplier that is located exactly outside the phosphor window 522 (which picks up the phosphor signal). The alpha particles are produced in common with neutrons and move in a direction opposite to that of the neutrons. Based on the detection of the associated alpha particles of the neutrons, the timing of the neutrons can be easily calculated. Therefore, when an alpha particle is detected, the timing of the resulting gamma ray 528 must be within a tight time window (nanoseconds). Since the time window is so small, the resulting gamma ray 528 is very likely to come from the neutrons emitted from the NNA / API 502. In some embodiments of the present invention, the detector 504 looks for the resulting gamma rays from the decaying atoms in ilmenite within a short time window from when an alpha particle is sensed. It should be understood that the time it takes for the gamma ray 528 to be detected represents the depth of the neutron penetration into the topsoil 112. Since the resolution of the detection decreases mathematically as a function of 1 / r 2 the probability of intercepting the emitted gamma ray 528. In addition, the short time window associated with the alpha particles and the resulting gamma ray 528 filters out most of the background noise from randomly received cosmic radiation. The electronics 524 dedicated to the NNA / API 502 provides the timing, logic, power, etc. for operating the NNA / API 502. Since the NNA / API 502 is already in a low-pressure environment (below 7 mTorr), in some embodiments of the present invention, there is no pressure chamber and pump system incorporated on all NNA / APIs. However, a filtration system is incorporated in the NNA / API 502 to prevent dust from entering the path of the neutron beam, which is not a problem for the vacuum system.

[0069] Figure 10 is a method for obtaining He-3 on an extraterrestrial object using titanium association according to an embodiment of the present invention. The method uses Figures 8A-8EThe ilmenite detector device shown, and in step 550, the exploration vehicle 102 is moved from a first location on the surface of the moon 122 or some other extraterrestrial body to a second location. In step 552, when the exploration vehicle 102 is at the location of interest, the NNA / API 502 emits a neutron beam of a plurality of neutrons 526, which is directed at the surface 112A of the moon 122, and the neutron beam penetrates the surface 112A and enters the regolith 112. In step 554, the neutrons 526 interact with the regolith 112 to emit gamma rays 528, and the gamma ray detector system 504 detects the gamma rays 528 within a tight time window (less than 100 ns). The gamma ray detector system 504 can be adjusted to filter one or more components of ilmenite. Optionally, the gamma ray detector system 504 together with the signal processing electronics can be arranged and configured to identify energies consistent with titanium and / or other elements of interest (Fe and O). The gamma ray detection system 504 can also include an on-board computer, which allows for the active identification of typical gamma rays (including those from titanium and / or iron), and in some cases the identification of ratios of these elements consistent with the presence of ilmenite. Optionally, the computing system 516 on the exploration vehicle 102 can be configured to separate one or more components of ilmenite and determine the presence and concentration of ilmenite at the first location. In step 556, in either case, the concentration of ilmenite is obtained by the gamma ray detector system 504 in cooperation with the NNA / API 502. As Figure 7 shown, in step 558, the concentration of ilmenite 530 or at least the raw data available for determining the presence and concentration of ilmenite 530 is sent to a remote receiver, such as a remote receiver on the orbital satellite 440. When data is collected and sent from the first location 152, the exploration vehicle 102 moves to the second location 154, where these steps are repeated. In step 560, since He-3 is strongly associated with ilmenite, the ilmenite concentration data from the first location 152 is compared with the ilmenite concentration data from the second location 154 to map the mining area of interest (He-3 target mining site) for the extraction of He-3. Thus, this method example for finding high concentrations of ilmenite or at least titanium provides He-3 target mining sites on the moon 122 to simplify and make efficient lunar mining operations.

[0070] 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 assist the reader in understanding. Therefore, the elements mentioned below are provided as examples to aid in the understanding of the present invention and should not be considered 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.

[0071] In this case, some embodiments of the present invention contemplate an associated particle imaging apparatus 500 for detecting ilmenite 530 as Figures 8A-8C shown. The apparatus 500 includes a transporter 102 carrying an NNA / API 502 and at least one gamma ray detector 504, and a cosmic radiation shield 512. The transporter 102 is defined by a top end 506 and a bottom end 508, where the bottom end 508 is configured to dock with the surface 112A of the extraterrestrial body 122. The transporter 102 is configured to move at different locations 152 / 154 on the surface 112A of the extraterrestrial body 122. The NNA / API 502 includes a neutron emitter 520 configured to aim a neutron cone 126 from the bottom end 508 towards the surface 112A of the extraterrestrial body 122. The NNA / API 502 does not include a vacuum chamber adapted to otherwise maintain a pressure lower than the ambient environment of the apparatus 500. At least one gamma ray detector 504 includes a gamma bandpass filter that does not block titanium or iron. Optionally, at least one gamma ray detector 504 together with signal processing electronics includes a gamma ray detection system. The gamma ray detection system may also include an on-board computer that allows for the active identification of typical gamma rays (including those from titanium and / or iron), and in some cases the identification of the ratios of these elements consistent with the presence of ilmenite. At least one gamma ray detector 504 is configured to substantially detect concentration information of titanium and / or iron in a ratio consistent with ilmenite 530. The apparatus 500 also includes a cosmic radiation shield 512 covering the NNA / API 502 and at least one gamma ray detector 504, where the cosmic radiation shield 512 is configured to shield at least a portion of cosmic radiation including cosmic gamma radiation and cosmic neutron radiation. The cosmic radiation shield 512 is disposed at the top end 506 of the transporter 102. The apparatus 500 also includes an energy source 210 configured to supply energy to the NNA / API 502 and at least one gamma ray detector 504. The apparatus also includes a non-transitory memory connected to at least one gamma ray detector 504, where the non-transitory memory is configured to store the concentration information. A transmitter 212 in the apparatus 500 is configured to transmit the concentration information to a remote receiver 440.

[0072] It is also contemplated that at least one gamma ray detector 504 in the apparatus 500 is adjusted to substantially detect the concentration of titanium and iron at a depth of 3 feet.

[0073] It is also contemplated that at least one gamma ray detector 504 in the apparatus 500 is within 12 inches of the surface 112A of the extraterrestrial body 122.

[0074] In the apparatus 500, it is also contemplated that the ilmenite 530 is in the regolith 112 and the extraterrestrial body is the moon 122.

[0075] It is also contemplated that the NNA / API 502 and at least one gamma ray detector 504 of the apparatus 500 include at least one inner chamber 525 that is free from external contamination, since the NNA / API 502 and at least one gamma ray detector 504 include a filtration system. Although not having a vacuum system, however, at least one inner chamber 525 is under a pressure of less than 7 millitorr.

[0076] It is contemplated that the transporter 102 of the apparatus 500 may be selected from the group consisting of a rover, a dispenser pod, a hopper, or a hand carrier.

[0077] The apparatus 500 may also include first concentration information of titanium at a first location 152 on the extraterrestrial body 122 and second concentration information of titanium at a second location 154 on the extraterrestrial body 122, wherein the apparatus 500 further includes a computer processor 516 that compares the first concentration with the second concentration.

[0078] The cosmic radiation shield 512 in the apparatus 500 may be metallic (such as iron or lead, etc.).

[0079] In another aspect of the present invention, some embodiments contemplate an ilmenite detector apparatus 500 that employs correlated particle imaging. The ilmenite detector apparatus 500 includes a rover 102, an NNA / API 502, and a gamma ray detector 504. The NNA / API 502 includes a neutron emitter 520 that is configured to aim a neutron cone 526 from the rover 102 towards the surface 112A of the extraterrestrial body 122. The NNA / API 502 does not contain a vacuum chamber. The gamma ray detector 504 is configured to detect the concentrations of titanium and iron, wherein the titanium concentration and the iron concentration are within 12 inches of the surface 112A of the extraterrestrial body 122. The gamma ray detector 504 is configured to detect the titanium concentration by means of gamma rays 528 emitted from the surface 112A due to neutrons 526 impinging on the surface 112A from the neutron cone 526. The ilmenite detector apparatus 500 further includes a cosmic radiation shield 512, a computing processor 516, and a transmitter 212. The cosmic radiation shield 512 covers the NNA / API 502 and the gamma ray detector 504 to protect them from at least a portion of cosmic gamma radiation and cosmic neutron radiation. The computing processor 516 is configured and arranged to determine whether the concentrations of titanium and iron include a ratio consistent with ilmenite 530. The transmitter is configured and arranged to transmit the concentration information to a remote receiver. The rover 102 is configured to transport the ilmenite detector apparatus 500 to different locations 152 / 154 on the surface 112A.

[0080] The ilmenite detector device 500 may further include an energy source 210 disposed on the exploration vehicle 102, the energy source 210 being connected to the NNA / API 502 and configured to supply energy to the NNA / API 502.

[0081] The ilmenite detector device 500 may further include a non-transitory memory, the non-transitory memory being connected to the α detector and further configured to store titanium concentration information.

[0082] The ilmenite detector device 500 may further include other gamma ray detectors 504.

[0083] The ilmenite detector device 500 contemplates that the NNA / API 502 and the gamma ray detectors 504 are within 12 inches of the surface 112A.

[0084] The ilmenite detector device 500 may further include first concentration information of titanium at a first location 152 of the extraterrestrial body 122 and second concentration information of titanium at a second location 154 on the extraterrestrial body 122. The ilmenite detector device 500 further includes a computer processor 516 that compares the first concentration with the second concentration.

[0085] It is contemplated that the NNA / API 502 of the ilmenite detector device 500 further includes at least one inner chamber 525 maintained at a pressure below 7 millitorr.

[0086] The ilmenite detector device 500 contemplates that ilmenite 530 is in the regolith 112 and the extraterrestrial body is the Moon 122.

[0087] Another embodiment of the present invention contemplates a method as Figures 8A-8E and Figure 10 shown, the method including moving the exploration vehicle 102 from a first location 152 on the Moon 122 to a second location 154; emitting a neutron beam 526 of a plurality of neutrons at the surface 112A at the first location 152; detecting gamma rays 528 from decaying, unstable titanium atoms and iron atoms bombarded by the neutrons of the neutron beam 526; determining the ratio of titanium atoms to iron atoms by the gamma rays 528; and verifying that the ratio corresponds to ilmenite 530.

[0088] The method may further include repeating the emitting step, the detecting step, the determining step, and the verifying step at the second location 154.

[0089] The method may further include verifying the concentration of ilmenite 530 at the first location and the second location.

[0090] Another embodiment of the present invention contemplates a mass spectrometer device 300 (as Figures 4A-4CAs shown), the mass spectrometer device 300 includes a mass spectrometer 400 carried on a movable carrier 102. The mass spectrometer 400 (as Figures 5A-5D shown) includes a basic particle path 401 that starts from an inlet 434 and terminates at a detector plate 464. The particle path 401 traverses the mass spectrometer 400 transversely. The mass spectrometer 400 also includes an inlet funnel 402 that has a funnel-shaped housing 403 that extends from the inlet 434 to an outlet 435, where the outlet 435 is smaller than the inlet 434. The inlet 434 directly interfaces with the open environment 405 unobstructed and is configured to communicate with the open environment 405 during operation. The mass spectrometer 400 also includes an ion generator 450 adjacent to the outlet 435, where the ion generator 450 of the mass spectrometer is configured to ionize basic particles 460 in a portion of the basic particle path 401. The mass spectrometer 400 also includes a detector housing 422 and an angled housing 418. The detector housing 422 includes a detector plate 464. The angled housing 418 has split-pole magnets 470 and 472 that are configured to direct the basic particles 460 along the basic particle path 401 at an angle β + / - a certain offset (e.g., less than 10 degrees). The mass spectrometer device 300 and the inlet funnel 402 in some embodiments have a granular surface breaker 430 that is configured to release the basic particles 460 from a 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 inlet 434 above the external granular surface 112.

[0091] The mass spectrometer device 300 is envisioned as a mass spectrometer device 300 without a pressure chamber that is adapted to maintain a pressure lower than the open environment 405.

[0092] One embodiment of the mass spectrometer device 300 envisions the granular surface breaker 430 as a heating element.

[0093] One embodiment of the mass spectrometer device 300 envisions the area of the outlet 435 to be at least half of the inlet 434.

[0094] One embodiment of the mass spectrometer device 300 envisions the open environment 405 to be less than 7 mTorr.

[0095] One embodiment of the mass spectrometer device 300 envisions the basic particles 460 to include helium-3, and the mass spectrometer 400 is adjusted to be suitable for helium-3.

[0096] One embodiment of the mass spectrometer device 300 envisions the movable carrier to be selected from the group consisting of a detection vehicle 102, a dispersion pod 440, a hopper 120, or a hand carrier 224.

[0097] One embodiment of the mass spectrometer apparatus 300 contemplates that the movable carrier is configured to position the inlet 434 within 6 inches of the external granular surface 112A.

[0098] 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 that includes an antenna 212 and a transmitter 214, and the transmitter 214 is configured to transmit the concentration to a receiver (not shown).

[0099] Another embodiment of the present invention contemplates a mass spectrometer system 300 that includes a mass spectrometer 400, a heating element 430, and a movable carrier 102. The mass spectrometer 400 may include a path 401 that extends from the inlet 434 through the mass spectrometer system 200 to the detector 464. The mass spectrometer 400 may also include an inlet funnel 402 that includes the inlet 434, and the inlet 434 is configured to directly receive the base particles 460 from the open environment 405, and the inlet funnel 402 is configured to direct the base particles 460 to the outlet 435. The mass spectrometer 400 may also include an ion generator 450 that is configured to ionize the base particles 460 received from the outlet 435. The mass spectrometer 400 also includes polarizing magnets 470 and 472 that are located in the angled housing 418 between the ion generator 450 and the detector 464. The heating element 430 may be located in the mass spectrometer 400 or other locations of the system 300, and is configured to release the base particles 460 from the granular surface 112 by means 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 the inlet 434 at a location near the external granular surface 112.

[0100] Some embodiments of the mass spectrometer system 300 also contemplate that the outlet 435 is smaller than the inlet 434.

[0101] Some embodiments of the mass spectrometer system 300 also contemplate that the inlet 434 communicates with the open environment 405 during operation, where there is no pressure chamber associated with the mass spectrometer system 300. "Associated" is defined herein as being part of the system 300 or having a direct cooperative relationship with the system 300.

[0102] Some embodiments of the mass spectrometer system 300 contemplate that the mass spectrometer 400 further includes an accelerator located between the ion generator 450 and the polarizing magnets 470 and 472.

[0103] Some embodiments of the mass spectrometer system 300 also contemplate that the sector magnets 470 and 472 are configured to direct the base particle 460 along the base particle path 401 at an angle β plus or minus a certain offset (defined as less than 10 degrees).

[0104] 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 external granular surface 112 at the first location 152 and the second location 154.

[0105] Some embodiments of the mass spectrometer system 300 contemplate that the movable carrier is selected from the group consisting of the exploration vehicle 102, the dispersion pod 490, the hopper 120, or the hand carrier 224.

[0106] Some embodiments of the mass spectrometer system 300 contemplate that the pressure of the open environment 405 is less than 7 millitorr.

[0107] In another embodiment of the present invention, it is contemplated that the open environment mass spectrometer device 300 includes a mass spectrometer 400, which is positioned and supported by a movable carrier 102. The mass spectrometer 400 may have an inlet funnel 402, which is configured to directly receive the base particle 460 from the open environment 405 through the inlet 434. The inlet funnel 402 is configured to direct the base particle 460 into the mass spectrometer 400. The device 300 may also include a heating element 430, which is configured to release the base particle 460 from the topsoil layer 112 by means of heat, and the topsoil layer 112 is not part of the open environment mass spectrometer device 300. Some embodiments contemplate that the mass spectrometer 400 includes a heating element. The device 300 also includes a movable carrier 102, which is configured to position the inlet 434 above the topsoil layer 112 at a height generally less than 12 inches.

[0108] One embodiment of the open environment mass spectrometer device 300 contemplates that the mass spectrometer 400 is maintained at a pressure substantially equal to the pressure of the open environment 405.

[0109] In this case, still other embodiments of the present invention contemplate a helium-3 detection device 200 as Figures 2A-2E shown, the helium-3 detection device 200 includes a thermal neutron source 202 and a thermal neutron detector 204. More specifically, the thermal neutron source 202 may include a thermal neutron emitter 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 can be configured to detect the 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 neutron shield 206 and the thermal neutron detector 204). A power source 210, such as a battery or a solar system, is configured to power the thermal neutron source 202 and the thermal neutron detector 204. The metal plate 110 has a perimeter 114, i.e., the sidewall boundary of the metal plate 110 shown by four side edges 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.

[0110] In another embodiment, the detection vehicle 102 is envisioned to support the helium-3 detection apparatus 200, where the detection vehicle 102 positions the metal plate within 10 centimeters of the surface 112A of the granular soil 112. The helium-3 detection apparatus 200 envisions that the concentration 220 is affected by the concentration of helium-3 in the granular soil 112.

[0111] In another embodiment of the helium-3 detection apparatus 200, the metal plate 110 is made of aluminum.

[0112] The helium-3 detection apparatus 200 may further include wireless communicators 212 and 214 that are configured to send the concentration 220 to a receiver, such as a receiver at a remote hub or a remote site, which evaluates the concentration 220 at each sampling location (from 152 and 154 to 156, as Figure 1B shown). In some embodiments, the concentration 220 can be determined with respect to time.

[0113] In another embodiment of the helium-3 detection apparatus 200, the metal plate 110 is at least a part of the detection vehicle base of the detection vehicle 102.

[0114] The helium-3 detection apparatus 200 also envisions that when the thermal neutron source 202 is emitting neutrons 222, the metal plate 110 is located less than 10 centimeters away from the granular surface 112A.

[0115] The helium-3 detection apparatus 200 envisions an embodiment in which the metal plate 110 includes a handle 224 configured to be carried by at least one person or a robot.

[0116] The helium-3 detection apparatus 200 envisions an embodiment in which the metal plate 110 is attached to the low-gravity hopper 120.

[0117] Another embodiment of the present invention contemplates a helium-3 detection system 200, which generally includes a thermal neutron detector 204 for sensing the number of neutrons 222 emitted from a thermal neutron source 202 to evaluate the helium-3 concentration in the topsoil 112 or other granular soil. More specifically, this embodiment contemplates that the thermal neutron source 202 is configured to emit thermal neutrons 222 in all directions, and 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 placed between the thermal neutron source 202 and the thermal neutron detector 204 to isolate the neutrons detected from the topsoil 112, thereby evaluating the amount or concentration of helium-3 in the topsoil 112. The system may include a power source 210 such as a battery to power the thermal neutron source 202 and the thermal neutron detection system 204. The neutron shield 206, the thermal neutron source 202, and the thermal neutron detection system 204 are contemplated to be disposed on a metal plate 110, which is configured to be placed within 10 centimeters of the surface 112A of the granular soil 112.

[0118] The helium-3 detection system 200 also contemplates that the neutron shield 206 is configured to block at least 90% of the thermal neutrons 222 emitted from the thermal neutron source 202 that are aimed 218 at the thermal neutron detection system 204.

[0119] The helium-3 detection system 200 also 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.

[0120] The helium-3 detection system 200 contemplates an embodiment in which the neutron shield 206 is a boronated shield.

[0121] The helium-3 detection system embodiment 200 may also include a transmitter 214 configured to transmit the neutron concentration 220 to a remote receiver.

[0122] The helium-3 detection system 200 contemplates using the helium-3 detection system 200 to map areas of helium-3 concentration by moving it to different locations (from 152 and 154 to 156, as Figure 1B shown) on the surface 112A of the celestial body 122 via a transport vehicle selected from the group consisting of a rover 102, a low-gravity hopper 120, or a robot (not shown).

[0123] The helium-3 detection system 200 contemplates that the neutron shield 206 is 1 to 4 inches thick, depending on the amount of neutron attenuation required on the thermal neutron detection system side of the neutron shield 206.

[0124] Another embodiment of the present invention contemplates a device 200 for detecting helium-3 in the regolith 112 on the moon 122. The device 200 may include: a neutron source 202 configured to emit thermal neutrons 222; a neutron detector 204 configured to detect the 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 of the neutrons 222 in the line of sight 218 between the neutron source 202 and the neutron detector 204. The device 200 may also include a power source 210 configured to power the thermal neutron source 202, the thermal neutron detection system 204, and the transmitter 214. The transmitter 214 is configured to transmit the neutron concentration 220 to a remote receiver. The neutron shield 206, the thermal neutron source 202, and the thermal neutron detection system 204 are contemplated to be disposed on a metal plate 110. The device 200 is also contemplated to be moved to different locations (from 152 and 154 to 156, as Figure 1B shown) on the surface 112A of the moon 122 via a transport vehicle 102 or 120.

[0125] In the device 200, the neutron shield 206 is contemplated to be thick enough and contain sufficient attenuation material such as boron, etc. to attenuate at least 95% of the neutrons 222.

[0126] In the device 200, the neutron concentration 220 detected by the neutron detector 204 is inversely proportional to the helium-3 concentration in the regolith 112.

[0127] These exemplary embodiments are not an exhaustive list of the embodiments presented throughout the description, but are merely examples of a chain of contemplated embodiments consistent with the embodiments of the present invention. In other words, many other embodiments are described herein that are not necessarily shown in the device embodiments immediately above.

[0128] It should be understood that although numerous features and advantages of various embodiments of the present invention and details of the structure and function of various embodiments of the present invention are set forth in the foregoing description, the present disclosure is merely exemplary and may be changed in details, particularly in the structure and arrangement of components, as long as it is within the scope of the principles indicated by the broad general meaning of the terms expressed in the appended embodiments. For example, the orientation of elements and plates may include other geometries that are not explicitly shown in the above embodiments but can maintain substantially the same functions without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention. Similarly, the materials and structures of the neutron shields may 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 a mass spectrometer, its basic construction is well known in the art, and once those skilled in the art have grasped the concepts disclosed herein, the existing embodiments discussed can be modified. In addition, the electronic devices and computing devices capable of implementing the functions of the helium-3 detection system are not described in detail because they either already exist or can be easily constructed by those skilled in the art.

[0129] Obviously, the present invention well adapts to the mentioned purposes and advantages, as well as those inherent thereto. Although the presently preferred embodiments have been described for the purpose of the present disclosure, many changes can be made which are readily envisioned by those skilled in the art and are included in the gist of the disclosed invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A correlated particle imaging device for detecting ilmenite, the correlated particle imaging device comprising: a transporter comprising a top end and a bottom end, wherein the bottom end is configured to dock with a surface of an extraterrestrial body, the transporter being configured to move to different locations on the surface of the extraterrestrial body; a nanosecond neutron analysis and correlated particle imaging system (NNA / API) comprising a neutron emitter configured to be aimed from the bottom end toward the surface of the extraterrestrial body, the NNA / API not containing a vacuum chamber adapted to maintain a pressure lower than an ambient environment of the correlated particle imaging device; at least one gamma ray detector configured to identify energy characteristics of gamma rays of titanium and / or iron; a cosmic radiation shield covering the NNA / API and the at least one gamma-ray detector, wherein the cosmic radiation shield is configured to shield at least a portion of cosmic radiation including cosmic gamma radiation and cosmic neutron radiation, the cosmic radiation shield being disposed at the top end of the transporter; an energy source configured to provide energy to the NNA / API and the at least one gamma ray detector; a non-transitory memory connected to the at least one gamma-ray detector, the non-transitory memory being configured to store concentration information; and A transmitter is configured to transmit the concentration information to a remote receiver.

2. The correlated particle imaging apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one gamma ray detector is adjusted to substantially detect concentrations of titanium and iron at a depth of 3 feet.

3. The correlated particle imaging apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one gamma-ray detector is within 12 inches of the surface of the extraterrestrial object.

4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the NNA / API and the at least one gamma ray detector comprise at least one internal chamber.

5. The correlated particle imaging apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one inner chamber is at a pressure below 7 mTorr.

6. The correlated particle imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the transporter is selected from the group consisting of a probe vehicle, a dispersion cabin, a jumper or a handheld carrier.

7. The correlated particle imaging apparatus of claim 1, wherein the concentration information comprises first concentration information of titanium at a first location on the extraterrestrial body and second concentration information of titanium at a second location on the extraterrestrial body, and the correlated particle imaging apparatus further comprises a computer processor for comparing the first concentration information with the second concentration information.

8. The correlated particle imaging apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one gamma ray detector is adjusted to substantially detect a concentration of titanium.

9. The correlated particle imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the cosmic radiation shield is metallic.

10. An ilmenite detector device using correlated particle imaging, the ilmenite detector device comprising: Exploration vehicle; a nanosecond neutron analysis and associated particle imaging system (NNA / API) comprising a neutron emitter configured to aim a neutron cone from the rover toward a surface of an extraterrestrial object, the NNA / API not containing a vacuum chamber; a gamma ray detector that detects a titanium concentration and an iron concentration, the titanium concentration being from within 12 inches of the surface of the extraterrestrial body, the gamma ray detector being configured to detect the titanium concentration by means of gamma rays emitted from the surface of the extraterrestrial body as a result of neutrons from the neutron cone striking the surface of the extraterrestrial body; a cosmic radiation shield covering the NNA / API and the gamma-ray detector from at least a portion of cosmic gamma radiation and cosmic neutron radiation; a computing processor configured to determine whether the titanium concentration and the iron concentration comprise a ratio consistent with ilmenite; and a transmitter configured to transmit the titanium concentration and the iron concentration to a remote receiver, Wherein the rover is configured to transport the ilmenite detector device to different locations on the surface of the extraterrestrial body.

11. The ilmenite detector device according to claim 10, further comprising an energy source disposed on the detection vehicle, the energy source being connected to the NNA / API and configured to provide energy to the NNA / API. 12 . The ilmenite detector device according to claim 10 , further comprising a non-transitory memory connected to the gamma-ray detector, the non-transitory memory being configured to store information of the titanium concentration and the iron concentration.

13. The ilmenite detector apparatus of claim 10, further comprising other gamma ray detectors.

14. The ilmenite detector apparatus of claim 10, wherein the NNA / API and the gamma ray detector are within 12 inches of the surface of the extraterrestrial object.

15. The ilmenite detector device of claim 10, wherein the titanium concentration and the iron concentration include first concentration information of titanium at a first location on the extraterrestrial body and second concentration information of titanium at a second location on the extraterrestrial body, the ilmenite detector device further comprising a computer processor that compares the first concentration information with the second concentration information.

16. The ilmenite detector device of claim 10, wherein the NNA / API comprises at least one internal chamber at a pressure less than 7 mTorr.

17. A method comprising: moving a transporter from a first location on the moon to a second location; emitting a neutron beam of a plurality of neutrons at the surface at the first location; detecting gamma rays from decaying, unstable titanium atoms and iron atoms bombarded by the plurality of neutrons of the neutron beam; determining a ratio of titanium atoms to iron atoms from the gamma rays; and It was confirmed that the ratios corresponded to ilmenite.

18. The method of claim 18, wherein the transporter is selected from the group consisting of a rover, a dispersion pod, a jumper, or a handheld carrier.

19. The method of claim 18, further comprising repeating the transmitting step, the detecting step, the determining step, and the establishing step at the second location.

20. The method of claim 19, further comprising confirming the concentration of ilmenite at the first location and the second location.

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