Electrodynamic Dust Shield for Lunar Regolith Mitigation on Optical Systems

The EagleCam 2.0 mission requires clear, high-quality imagery during descent through the dense plume of lunar regolith generated by engine exhaust. We propose to integrate an Electrodynamic Dust Shield (EDS) into the camera housing to actively remove charged and uncharged lunar dust from optical surfaces, preventing obscuration from adhering particles. Building on three decades of EDS development at NASA Kennedy Space Center and recent advances in roll-to-roll fabrication and modular panel designs, this study will (1) characterize the relevant regolith properties; (2) adapt EDS electrode geometries and drive electronics to EagleCam’s size, power, and thermal envelope; (3) validate performance in a lunar dust analog environment; and (4) prepare the system for flight integration. Successful demonstration will ensure unobstructed optical data for future lunar and ultimately Martian surface missions.