NASA Ames Research Center has been studying the feasibility of vertical lift aerial vehicles to support planetary science and exploration missions. Besides Earth, it appears that there are three planetary bodies within our solar system where vertical flight might not only be theoretically feasible, but would also have unique mission capabilities that no other platform (ground-based, aerial, or orbital) could provide. Several vertical lift vehicle configurations might be applicable for planetary science missions. This paper presents a few representative conceptual design cases and the design challenges inherent in their development. Finally, more detailed comments are directed to the issues inherent in developing a NASA 'Mars Scout' mission employing the use of a Martian autonomous rotorcraft.


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    Engineering Studies into Vertical Lift Planetary Aerial Vehicles

    L. A. Young / E. W. Aiken / M. R. Derby et al. | NTIS | 2002


    Design Opportunities and Challenges in the Development of Vertical Lift Planetary Aerial Vehicles

    Young, L. A. / Chen, R. T. N. / Aiken, E. W. et al. | British Library Conference Proceedings | 2000



    Use of Vertical Lift Planetary Aerial Vehicles for the Exploration of Mars

    Young, L. A. / Briggs, G. A. / Derby, M. R. et al. | NTRS | 2000