Further applications of a Figure-of-Merit in space missionsA redesigned figure-of-merit (FoM) approach is described with respect to its applications in projects that employ in situ resource utilization (ISRU) and advanced modular engines. The FoM considers long-term effects, reliability of hardware, and risks inherent to new technologies, as well as significant design parameters. A spreadsheet is utilized to describe the FoM by means of key mission characteristics and combinations of the characteristic inputs in terms of precise governing equations. Results of the FoMs for historical and Mars Sample Return (MSR) missions are given for the conventional mission as well as an ISRU mission for the MSR. A detailed description of the most effective Mars mission is presented, showing how different factors affect the FoM. The results demonstrate that the FoM gives quantitative results based on overall mission design, allowing intercomparisons of similar missions. The FoM can be used as a screening parameter by modifying aspects of the mission by means of the R-factor.
Document ID
19910057130
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Preiss, Bruce (Arizona Univ. Tucson, AZ, United States)
Pan, Thomas (Arizona Univ. Tucson, AZ, United States)
Ramohalli, Kumar (NASA Space Engineering Research Center; Arizona, University Tucson, United States)