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The Galactic DUNE mission is a Dust Observatory for
Galactic Dust Near Earth. Galactic dust is a significant constituent of the interstellar medium and, thereby, is part of the fundamental matter from which planetary systems form. Its study provides unique insights in the early stages of planet formation. Although the study of galactic dust is in the interest of both the astrophysics and planetary scientific communities, information on this important material is extremely sparse. Following the discovery by Ulysses and the most recent confirmation by Cassini that micron-sized interstellar dust grains pass through the planetary system a mission is proposed to characterize galactic dust at the Earth's distance by in-situ analysis. News (last update 03 May 2002) Science Mission Instruments Operations Outreach References (new) | |