TPS and Entry System Technologies for Future Mars and Titan Exploration

The purpose of this white paper is to provide an overview to the NRC Decadal Survey Mars and Ocean Worlds Sub-Panels on thermal protection system (TPS) technologies required for future Mars and Titan exploration missions. It considers the capability of heritage TPS technology used by previous Mars and Titan missions. A prime conclusion is that there are important advances regarding the availability of forebody TPS therefore, we recommend that NASA invest in a cross-cutting technology program that focuses on development and sustainment of relevant TPS materials, entry systems, test facilities, design tools, and flight instrumentation.