Identification techniques for nuclear particles in space plasma research and selected experimental results

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Abstract
The author presents an account of the rapid development in instrumental techniques proposed for satellite applications since 1970. Brief historical remarks on the evolution of thoughts on space plasma composition are followed by an introduction to space missions with a varying degree of emphasis on ion composition measurements. The characteristic technical constraints, which distinguish satellite instruments from laboratory equipment, are emphasised. Secondly, individual instruments are described with the emphasis placed on spectrometer systems used to determine particle identity. In spite of the fact that a satellite instrument is generally a self-contained unit with an electronics package, which is equally important for the overall performance, aspects of the electronics are addressed only to the extent it is required to convey insight into the functional principle of a particular solution to the particle identification problem. Finally, the physics of nuclear particles as important constituents in space plasmas is accentuated by discussing selected experimental results. The composition of the solar wind and related principles, the role of heavy ions as tracer particles and as a significant plasma component in the Earth's magnetosphere are delineated.