The lunar surface, subjected to solar radiation, solar wind, and Earth’s plasma, experiences dynamic charging phenomena. The precise replication of these conditions is imperative for human-crewed lunar missions to mitigate potential hazardous interactions between the lunar electrostatic environment and astronauts, rovers, and other equipment. In this study a plasma source has been implemented to emulate lunar surface charging environments. Various plasma sources were considered, and a plasma source assembly capable of modifying the plasma diffusion angle and position was introduced. Furthermore, plasma diagnostics were performed to measure plasma potential, ion and electron density, and electron temperature, with a comparative analysis conducted against the actual lunar surface plasma.

Keywords: Moon, Lunar surface charging, Vacuum chamber, Plasma source, Langmuir diagnostics