Attention is given to the comparative merits of two options for the return to earth of Mars round-trip sampling probe missions. The first option makes use of an onboard propulsion system to place the returning vehicle into a highly elliptical orbit around the earth. An orbital transfer vehicle (OTV) or OTV/orbital maneuvering vehicle combination retrieves the sample from the return vehicle. The second option uses aerocapture to place the return vehicle in earth orbit; this maneuver imposes no greater weight penalty for proceeding to a low orbit than remaining at one that is high. The second option delivers the sample to a Space Station-compatible orbit for pickup.


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    Title :

    Mars sample-return options


    Contributors:

    Published in:

    Publication date :

    1985-11-01



    Type of media :

    Miscellaneous


    Type of material :

    No indication


    Language :

    English




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