Science & Technology: Instruments: "Instruments
Introduction
The Venus Express payload comprises a combination of spectrometers, spectro-imagers and imagers covering a wavelength range from ultraviolet to thermal infrared, a plasma analyser and a magnetometer. This set of instruments will be able to study the atmosphere, plasma environment and surface of Venus in great detail.
The investigation aims to enhance our knowledge of the composition, circulation and evolution of the atmosphere of Venus. The surface properties of Venus and the interaction between the atmosphere and the surface will be examined and evidence of volcanic activity will be sought.
Most of the instruments are re-using designs and/or spare hardware originating from either Mars Express or Rosetta. Fitted onto a spacecraft whose design is derived from Mars Express and adapted to cope with the thermal and radiation environment in Venus orbit, they will gather data for a planned 500 Earth days (about two Venusian years).
The instruments are provided by collaborative efforts between scientific institutes in ESA member states and Russia. Principal investigators in different European countries lead the nationally funded collaborations."
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