Report to cross sections related to plasma–planetary atmosphere interaction processes

As a recent trend, the continuous increase of new technologies for space observations of new missions to Mars, Venus, and Titan, has stimulated vigorous experimental and theoretical studies on the collision process induced by interactions between plasma and planetary atmosphere. In order to facilitate the comprehension of these processes, this brief paper chose a collection of cross section data not always easily accessible. With the purpose of making a useful collection of such data we have collected both experimental and theoretical estimate for most of the expected collisions processes.

► We provide a simplified overview and a brief description of the collision processes induced by interactions between plasma and planetary/moon atmospheres. ► Elastic/direct scattering, charge exchange, ionization and electron stripping are described. ► Experimental measurements and theoretical computations of cross sections and their references are collected. ► An application to the Martian environment is performed.