NASA’s Europa Clipper spacecraft successfully powered on its science instruments after launch on October 14, 2024. The Europa Imaging System, which includes narrow-angle and wide-angle cameras, underwent its first checkout in December 2024.
The camera’s test images showed low-level variations in sensitivity due to the cover protecting its detectors from sunlight during inner solar system travel. However, enhanced images revealed a striped pattern resulting from divided sections capturing data quickly during close flybys of Europa. This setup will aid in calibrating science imagery and targeting specific locations on the moon.
The camera’s gimbal was also tested for the first time in flight, moving to target specific areas. The mission aims to explore Europa’s icy shell, ocean interactions, composition, and geology by 2030. Scientists hope to better understand astrobiological potential of habitable worlds beyond Earth.
Source: https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/images/pia26564-europa-clipper-camera-passes-first-test-in-space