This paper discusses two of the orbit design problems faced in the design of a Mars Rover/Sample Return mission, which is currently being studied at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory. The first is the problem of interplanetary transfer - what is the best trajectory for getting equipment to Mars and a sample back. Several kinds of trajectories are examined before the conclusion is made that straightforward direct transfers are best. The second orbit design problem is what kind of orbit around Mars is best for making high-resolution maps of sites where the rover could land and gather samples, and how can the same orbiter be used as a relay between a rover on Mars and ground stations on Earth. This question is examined in the context of alternate mission options being considered, and the answer depends on the requirements of the particular mission option.


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    Title :

    Trajectory design for a Mars Rover/Sample Return mission


    Contributors:

    Conference:

    AIAA/AAS Astrodynamics Conference ; 1988 ; Minneapolis, MN, United States


    Publication date :

    1988-01-01


    Type of media :

    Conference paper


    Type of material :

    No indication


    Language :

    English


    Keywords :



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