Research needs in electrostatics for Lunar and Mars space missions

The paper gives an overview over the potential dust-related hazards for crew and equipment on the surfaces of Moon and Mars, the currently available technologies for dust characterization and dust mitigation and directions for research needed to make future manned space exploration safe and efficient for crew and equipment. Primary research needs for future Mars and Moon missions related to electrostatics include: (1) in-situ characterization of dust properties including particle size, particle charge and magnetic properties of particles, (2) dust mitigation strategies to protect mission equipment including solar cells, camera ports, optical mirrors, mechanical components and EVA suits, and (3) research to understand the specific health hazards coming from exposure (inhalation, ingestion and skin contact) to Lunar and Martian dust and development of appropriate monitoring and protective devices for flight crews.