Session
Technical Session I: Hardware In Space
Abstract
This paper describes the system architecture and implementation approach for the Mars Pathfinder spacecraft scheduled to land on the surface of Mars in July, 1997. Mars Pathfinder (MPF) is one of the new series of small challenging missions doing significant science/engineering on a very fast schedule and limited budget. Along with Clementine and the Near Earth Asteroid Flyby (NEAR), Mars Pathfinder is pushing the frontiers of planetary missions. This paper details the system architecture, configuration, descriptions of all the subsystems, and status of the development effort. The implementation approach is discussed including new ways of doing business, fault tolerant design strategy and test approach. The uniquely challenging part of the MPF mission is the entry, descent, landing and operation on the surface of Mars. The entry, descent and landing system, including the aero shell, parachute, rocket assisted deceleration and airbag elements are discussed. The design drivers for this implementation of a surface landing mission are discussed.
Mars Pathfinder Flight System Design and Implementation
This paper describes the system architecture and implementation approach for the Mars Pathfinder spacecraft scheduled to land on the surface of Mars in July, 1997. Mars Pathfinder (MPF) is one of the new series of small challenging missions doing significant science/engineering on a very fast schedule and limited budget. Along with Clementine and the Near Earth Asteroid Flyby (NEAR), Mars Pathfinder is pushing the frontiers of planetary missions. This paper details the system architecture, configuration, descriptions of all the subsystems, and status of the development effort. The implementation approach is discussed including new ways of doing business, fault tolerant design strategy and test approach. The uniquely challenging part of the MPF mission is the entry, descent, landing and operation on the surface of Mars. The entry, descent and landing system, including the aero shell, parachute, rocket assisted deceleration and airbag elements are discussed. The design drivers for this implementation of a surface landing mission are discussed.
