Tag

Aerocapture

All articles tagged with #aerocapture

space-exploration2 years ago•0 min saved

ESA Explores Bold New Approach: Sending Rocketships to Mars at 11,000mph

The European Space Agency (ESA) is exploring the concept of aerocapture as a new method to orbit Mars, aiming to revolutionize how we reach the Red Planet. The conventional method of using rocket engines to slow down spacecraft has limitations, such as requiring a lot of fuel and prolonging the journey. Aerocapture could offer a more efficient and cost-effective approach, allowing for faster arrival at Mars and enabling a wider range of missions.

via Interesting Engineering|

#aerocapture #european-space-agency #mars

space-exploration2 years ago•5 min saved

"ESA's Innovative Mars Orbit Strategy: Exploring New Frontiers"

The European Space Agency (ESA) is exploring the possibility of using aerocapture, a technique that utilizes atmospheric drag instead of propellant, to put a spacecraft into orbit around Mars. While aerocapture has been studied for decades, it has never been attempted in a scientific mission. ESA has funded two teams to design spacecraft that use a feasible aerocapture system, with the aim of gaining confidence in the technique for future missions. If successful, this could reduce the amount of propellant needed and cut down on cruise time for spacecraft traveling to other planets with atmospheres.

via European Space Agency|

#aerocapture #esa #mars

space-exploration2 years ago•9 min saved

Unveiling the 'Free Lunch' of Aerocapture in Space Exploration

A new paper explores the concept of aerocapture, a technique used in space exploration where a spacecraft uses the atmosphere of a planet to slow down and achieve orbit insertion. The paper discusses the different methods of aerodynamic control, such as lift modulation and drag modulation, and highlights the importance of accounting for atmospheric uncertainties in mission design. The atmospheric density of planets like Mars and Venus can vary significantly, posing risks to aerocapture maneuvers. The paper also examines the aerocapture capabilities of various planets in the solar system, including Venus, Mars, Titan, Uranus, and Neptune.

via Universe Today|

#aerocapture #atmospheric-uncertainties #mission-design