NASA Logo

NTRS

NTRS - NASA Technical Reports Server

Back to Results
(abstract) A Low-Cost Mission to 2060 Chiron Based on the Pluto Fast FlybyThe Pluto Fast Flyby-based mission to Chiron described in this paper is a low cost, scientifically rewarding, focused mission in the outer solar system. The proposed mission will make a flyby of 2060 Chiron, an active 'comet' with over 10(sup 4) times the mass of Halley, and an eccentric, Saturn-crossing orbit which ranges from 8.5 to 19 AU. This mission concept achieves the flyby 4.2 years after launch on a direct trajectory from Earth, is independent of Jupiter launch windows, and fits within Discovery cost guidelines. This mission offers the scientific opportunity to examine a class of object left unsampled by the trail-blazing Mariners, Pioneers, Voyagers, and missions to Halley. Spacecraft reconnaissance of Chiron addresses unique objectives relating to cometary science, other small bodies, the structure of quasi-bound atmospheres on modest-sized bodies, and the origin of primitive bodies and the giant planets. Owing to Chiron's large size (180
Document ID
20060039487
Acquisition Source
Jet Propulsion Laboratory
Document Type
Preprint (Draft being sent to journal)
External Source(s)
Authors
Stern, S. A.
Salvo, C. G.
Wallace, R. A.
Weinstein, S. S.
Weissman, P. R.
Date Acquired
August 23, 2013
Publication Date
April 12, 1994
Subject Category
Lunar And Planetary Science And Exploration
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other
Keywords
2060 Chiron planetesimal flyby Pluto Fast Flyby spacecraft reconnassance coma
cost comets outer solar system

Available Downloads

There are no available downloads for this record.
No Preview Available