Astronomy and Astrophysics – Astronomy
Scientific paper
Feb 1993
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=1993asd..confq....a&link_type=abstract
AIAA, AHS, and ASEE, Aerospace Design Conference, Irvine, CA, Feb. 16-19, 1993, 11 p.
Astronomy and Astrophysics
Astronomy
Lunar Maps, Lunar Surface, Spacecraft Design, Attitude Control, Data Processing, Data Transmission, Lunar Gravitation, Structural Design
Scientific paper
The Utah State University (USU) 1991-92 Space Systems Design Team has designed a Lunar Surface Mapper (LSM) to parallel the development of the NASA Office of Exploration lunar initiatives. USU students named the LSM 'Copernicus' after the 16th Century Polish astronomer, for whom the large lunar crater on the face of the moon was also named. The top level requirements for the Copernicus LSM are to produce a digital map of the lunar surface with an overall resolution of 12 meters (39.4 ft). It will also identify specified local surface features/areas to be mapped at higher resolutions by follow-on missions. The mapping operation will be conducted from a 300 km (186 mi) lunar-polar orbit. Although the entire surface should be mapped within six months, the spacecraft design lifetime will exceed one year with sufficient propellant planned for orbit maintenance in the anomalous lunar gravity field. The Copernicus LSM is a small satellite capable of reaching lunar orbit following launch on a Conestoga launch vehicle which is capable of placing 410 kg (900 lb) into translunar orbit. Upon orbital insertion, the spacecraft will weigh approximately 233 kg (513 lb). This rather severe mass constraint has insured attention to component/subsystem size and mass, and prevented 'requirements creep'. Transmission of data will be via line-of-sight to an earthased receiving system.
Anderson Shaun D.
Redd Frank J.
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