MATCH

The Space Weather Measurement Device is one of seven international scientific research instruments aboard the Chang’e-7 lunar orbiter. Its mission includes detecting high-energy particles such as protons (25 MeV–100 MeV), alpha particles (60 MeV–400 MeV), and electrons (1.0 MeV–120 MeV) within cosmic radiation in space. Additionally, it studies the interactions among the Sun, Earth, and Moon influenced by these particles.

Understanding space weather or high-energy particles in outer space is a crucial aspect of astrophysics due to its impact on human life and activities in modern times. For instance, solar storms, caused by massive explosions on the Sun's surface, release an immense amount of charged particles, which can disrupt satellite systems, communications, solar power generation, and high-voltage power grids. Research and mathematical modeling of these factors enable scientists to develop more accurate space weather warning systems.

The Chang’e-7 mission is part of China’s International Lunar Research Station (ILRS) initiative, managed by the China National Space Administration (CNSA). This large-scale scientific project represents a major challenge and a foundation for future deep-space exploration.

Objectives

• To drive Thai researchers and engineers toward cutting-edge scientific research projects and contribute to the development of new global knowledge under international research collaborations.
• To design and develop space-weather scientific research instruments capable of operating under extreme space conditions. This promotes collaboration between Thai and Chinese engineers, fostering skill and knowledge transfer in spacecraft equipment design. These foundations will support advanced research and development goals for national talent development.

Key Features
The Space Weather Measurement Device will be installed on the Chang’e-7 lunar orbiter, orbiting approximately 200 kilometers above the lunar surface. The device weighs approximately 4,900 grams and measures about 130 x 110 x 250 millimeters (W x L x H). It consists of a seven-layer silicon detector system to identify high-energy particles, charged particle directions, and the effects of solar, Earth, and lunar magnetic fields. The system is divided into three sections:

1. Upper Section (3 layers): Studies electrons in space to determine their origin (direction, time, position, energy, and intensity). Positioned to face away from the Moon.
2. Middle Section (1 layer): Features a crystal sensor to convert optical signals into digital data for processing. This data provides physical measurements such as position, density, and time, which are transmitted to the Chang’e-7 spacecraft and then relayed back to Earth.
3. Lower Section (3 layers): Studies ions reflected from the Moon’s surface to analyze albedo factors. Positioned to face the Moon.

Innovation Potential and Commercial Applications
This technology can be further developed for:

• Ground-based radiation research equipment
• Medical radiation measurement instruments
• Devices related to particle accelerator technologies

Thai Development Team

• Senior Payload Scientist
  Prof. Dr. David Ruffolo (Mahidol University)

• Project Manager
  Dr. Peerapong Torteeka  (NARIT)

• System Engineer
  Mr. Sharif Manutuch (NARIT)

• GNC Engineer
  Mr. Tanayut Panyalert (NARIT)

• Aerospace Engineer
  Mr. Popfa Charernwicha (NARIT)
  Mr. Thanawit Masri (NARIT)

• Mechatronics Engineer
  Mr. Pakorn Klornsri (NARIT)

• Payload Electrical Engineer
  Ms. Sunritai Burum (NARIT)

• Astrophysics Scientist
  Asst. Prof. Dr. Warit Mitthamsiri (Mahidol University)
  Dr. Petchara Patharakitvanich (Mahidol University)

• Payload Scientist
  Dr. Kulapha Chaiyawangkhod (Mahidol University)

• Payload Engineer
  Dr. Kullanan Phooprassit (Mahidol University)

• Payload Electrical Engineer
  Mr. Koch Amradit (Mahidol University)

• Experimental Physicist
  Ms. Jidapa Lakhornwat (Mahidol University)
  Mr. Sorawit Jindaratjakul (Mahidol University)

• Physicist
  Dr. Chanoknan Bangliang (RMUTT)

• Mechanical Engineers
  Mr. Somratchai Thanun (NARIT)
  Mr. Uaychai Layang (NARIT)
  Mr. Teerawat Kuha (NARIT)
  Mr. Worawat Somboonchai (NARIT)
  Mr. Likhit Maihmun (NARIT)
  Mr. Peeradon Oktan (NARIT)

Chinese Development Team

1. Senior Payload Scientist 
   Prof. Zhang Shenyi 
   NSSC
2. Payload Mechanical Engineer
   Prof. Shen Guohong
   NSSC
3. Senior Payload Engineer and System Manager
   Prof. He Xu
   CIOMP
4. Embedded System Engineer
   Prof. Zhang Ning
   CIOMP
5. Structural Engineer
   Prof. Zhao Haojiang
   CIOMP
6. Thermal Control System Engineer
   Prof. Huang Yong
   CIOMP
7. Nuclear Engineer
   Prof. Yang Dong
   Jilin University

For more information:
Dr. Peerapong Torteeka 
Project Manager
Email: [email protected] or [email protected]