An ion beam system for calibration of space low-energy ion detectors

Abstract Low-energy ion detection in space is one of the most important interests of space exploration. An accurate calibration of this type of instrument is necessary to ensure the effectiveness and scientificness of the obtained data. And the ion source is the most critical equipment in a calibration facility. In this study, an ion beam system based on Kaufman ion source is designed, which can meet the ground calibration of space low-energy ion detection instrument in the low-energy range of 100–1,000 eV. The experimental research shows that when the beam intensity of the ion source is about 100 mA, the Faraday Cup collects about 1 mA of current, and the generated ion beam fluctuates less than 5% within 60 min, which can meet the ground calibration requirements of space low-energy ion detection instruments.