Statistics – Applications
Scientific paper
Jun 1993
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=1993mass.work...13h&link_type=abstract
In its Proceedings of the Workshop on Microtechnologies and Applications to Space Systems p 13 (SEE N94-29767 08-31)
Statistics
Applications
Charon, Flyby Missions, Geomorphology, Instrument Packages, Neutral Atmospheres, Planetary Atmospheres, Planetary Geology, Planetary Mapping, Pluto (Planet), Reconnaissance, Space Exploration, Cameras, Charge Coupled Devices, Infrared Spectrometers
Scientific paper
The concept of a fast flyby mission to Pluto has been advanced as a means to complete the reconnaissance of the known solar system. In order to acquire data on the Pluto system at the earliest possible time, and within the professional lifetime of investigators now active in the field, concepts are being developed for relatively small spacecraft in the mass range of 70 Kg to 350 Kg with flight times to Pluto of 7 to 13 years. Necessarily, the science complement on such a mission will be very mass and power limited. The challenge will be to define a spacecraft and an instrument package that will maximize the scientific return within these limitations. Cost, of course, will be a major consideration, and funds for new technology development specific to this mission will not be extensive. Consequently, innovative ways to incorporate elegant simplicity into the designs must be found. In order to facilitate exploration of the Pluto-Charon system, fully integrated science payloads must be developed. Two proposed mission designs involving limited mass and power science payloads have been presented to the Outer Planets Science Working Group (OPSWG). These payload mass allocations range from 5 to 30 kilograms with power allocations as low as 5 watts. The drivers behind these low mass and power allocations are that they enable developing missions to fit within the moderate mission cost profile and allow fast flight times to Pluto (7 to 13 years). The OPSWG has prioritized science goals for this class of reconnaissance mission. Three specific science objectives were identified as the highest priority required for the first Pluto mission. These goals were: (1) study of the neutral atmosphere, (2) geology and morphology, and (3) surface compositional mapping. In order to achieve these science goals within the constraints of low mass, power and cost, it may be necessary to combine the functions of 3 conventional instruments (CCD camera, Ultra-Violet Spectrometer, and Infrared Spectrometer) into one fully integrated payload. Where possible, this payload would share optics, mechanisms, electronics and packaging.
No associations
LandOfFree
The Pluto fast flyby mission: Completing the reconnaissance of the solar system does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.
If you have personal experience with The Pluto fast flyby mission: Completing the reconnaissance of the solar system, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and The Pluto fast flyby mission: Completing the reconnaissance of the solar system will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-1334904