Advanced Kelvin Probe Operational Methodology for Space Applications

We present a novel methodology for the operation of macroscopic Kelvin Probe instruments. The methodology is based on the use of a harmonic backing potential signal to drive the tip-sample variable capacitance and on a Fourier representation of the tip current, allows for the operation of the instrument under full control and improves its scanning performance by a factor of 60 or more over that of currently available commercial instruments.