The International Planetary Protection Handbook

Abstract

The Planetary Protection of Outer Solar System (PPOSS) project tackled the science, technology and policy-making components related to biological and organic contamination of outer solar system bodies, in particular icy moons. This intensive three-year program has provided an international platform and forum where science, industry and policy actors met to nurture and catalyze discussions, exchange of knowledge and produce policy recommendations on the matter of planetary protection. The main objectives of the PPOSS project are to: Describe the state-of-the-art and good practice for implementing planetary protection requirements, and identify good practices and lessons to be learnt. Identify scientific challenges, requirements and knowledge gaps related to planetary protection of outer solar system bodies, including small solar system bodies. Develop a European engineering roadmap for the industry sector. Review the international outer solar system planetary protection regulation structure and categorization and suggest improvements, and, Facilitate the dissemination of knowledge related to planetary protection. The PPOSS project gathers seven European partner organizations, one international partner and one international observer.