Mars sample return mission options (1996-2005)Missions to the surface of Mars, carrying a Rover and having a sample return capability, constitute another logical step in the exploration of that planet in the late 1990's. Results of a recent study are described. A comparison of viable mission options, involving: retropropulsion vs. aerobraking/aeromaneuvering, direct return vs. Mars orbit rendezous, as well as the future potential of 'in-situ propellant production', is presented. An overview of a variety of scenarios of unmanned expeditions to Mars and their subsequent return to earth, within the addressed time period, is provided.
Document ID
19860058540
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Sergeyevsky, A. B. (Jet Propulsion Lab., California Inst. of Tech. Pasadena, CA, United States)
Devries, J. P. (California Institute of Technology Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, United States)