What question did this study set out to answer?

To provide electrical conductivity data for subsurface oceans on icy bodies, particularly Europa, under varying conditions.

May 14, 2026

Electrical Properties of Icy World Oceans from Laboratory Measurements

Key Points

To provide electrical conductivity data for subsurface oceans on icy bodies, particularly Europa, under varying conditions.
Conducted laboratory experiments measuring electrical conductivity of NaCl, MgSO4, NH4Cl, Na2CO3 brines.
Sampled in the temperature range of 263.15–298.15 K at ambient pressure and concentrations up to 150 g/kg H2O.
Designed measurements to inform magnetic induction data from NASA's Europa Clipper mission.
Measured electrical conductivity values enhance understanding of potential ocean compositions on Europa.
Data aids in estimating ocean thickness and its implications for astrobiology.
Findings provide critical constraints for interpreting magnetic induction measurements.

Abstract

Many icy bodies in the Solar System are hypothesized to harbor subsurface liquid-water oceans, with Jupiter’s moon Europa among the most promising for astrobiology research. NASA’s Europa Clipper mission will collect magnetic induction measurements to constrain Europa’s ocean composition and thickness. Interpreting this information requires accurate electrical conductivity data extending to the range of possible compositions, temperatures, and pressures in Europa’s ocean. Here, we report more comprehensive laboratory measurements of electrical conductivity for Europa-relevant brines (NaCl, MgSO4, NH4Cl, Na2CO3, and their mixtures) in the temperature range from 263.15–298.15 K and concentrations up to 150 g/kgH2O, at ambient pressure. This project provides critical experimental constraints for interpreting upcoming Europa Clipper data and enables stronger assessments of Europa’s ocean composition and its potential to support life.

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Electrical Properties of Icy World Oceans from Laboratory Measurements

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