A summary is given of the scope, approach, and major results of the study of ballistic mode Mercury orbit missions (the Mariner Venus-Mercury spacecraft). The performance potential of ballistic flight mode is presented along with a study of alternate flight techniques. Orbit selection considerations are discussed in terms of the thermal environment of Mercury. Orbiter science experiments are summarized. Technology assessments were conducted for major subsystems appropriate to spin-stabilized and three-axis-stabilized spacecraft designs. Conclusions from this study are: ballistic mode Mercury orbiter missions offer adequate performance for effective follow-up of the MVM'73 science findings; the existing and programmed technology base is adequate for implementation of Mercury orbit spacecraft design; and when pending MVM flyby has been accomplished and the results analyzed, the data base will be adequate to support detailed orbiter spacecraft design efforts.
Study of Ballistic Mode Mercury Orbiter Missions. Volume 1: Summary Report
1973
25 pages
Report
Keine Angabe
Englisch
Ballistic mode Mercury orbiter missions.
NTRS | 1973
|Ballistic mode Mercury orbiter missions
AIAA | 1973
|