MinMars/EDL

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This section requires further editing to include all previous efforts.

Repository of Working Models

http://svn.developspace.net/svn/minmars/users/arthur/Transportation/

Major EDL Challenges for MinMars

  • Significantly higher ballistic coefficient than MSL
    • Lower landing altitude than for MSL helps (denser atmosphere)
    • Landing altitude possibly as low as -2 km
  • Higher landing accuracy
    • 2-5 km vs. 20 km
    • But pre-deployed assets available (in orbit and on the ground)
  • No use of main parachute(s)
    • Vehicle never slows down sufficiently for existing parachute technology (< Mach 2); also issues with chute scaling
    • All-propulsive descent will likely be required
    • Possibly use of a supersonic drogue parachute for aeroshell forebody separation and stabilization
  • Off-center aerodynamic heating
    • Large aeroshell diameter leads to different Re-number regime, turbulent flow over forebody heat shield
    • Maximum heating may no longer occur at center / nose of heat shield but off-center in turbulent region

Question: in a worst-case scenario, could we deliver MinMars infrastructure�and crew with existing (Viking-based) EDL technology (or extensions thereof)?

EDL System for 2 mt Useful Mass

  • Transportation assessment assuming capability for 1 mt usable surface payload
  • Crew transportation:
    • 2 crew per 25 mt package
    • In-space habitat that is discarded prior to aerocapture / entry
    • 2 crew either enter together in single aeroshell or each crew has individual aeroshell
  • Transportation of supplies and spare parts
    • Can be scaled down and delivered with individual aeroshells in 1 mt packages
  • Transportation of power and ISRU systems
    • Can be scaled down and delivered with individual aeroshells in 1 mt packages
  • Transportation of unpressurized mobility systems
    • Can be scaled down and delivered with individual aeroshells in 1 mt packages
  • Transportation of habitat and workshop
    • Difficult, may require inflatable modules with interior outfitting; subsequent assembly on the surface
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MSL Technology Extension for Ballistic Coefficient 115 kg/m2