Session
Technical Session VIII: New Mission Concepts II
Abstract
The Commercial Hardware and Microgyro (CHμG) experiment was designed to demonstrate the feasibility of using commercial off-the-shelf modules (PC Cards) and microelectromechanical sensors (MEMS) on space missions and to obtain performance data on both in a deep-space environment so as to gain a better understanding of these two technologies which promise to substantially reduce the cost, mass and power of future spacecraft. Simultaneously, the experiment was designed to provide information and resources to Mars Pathfinder (MPF) which could enhance that mission's value. For various technical and programmatic reasons, the experiment was radically descoped and the "commercial hardware" aspect of the experiment was virtually eliminated. This paper discusses the original concept, the problems encountered in its implementation, and the current state of the experiment.
The Mars Pathfinder Commercial Hardware and Microgyro (CHμG) Experiment: Lessons Already Learned
The Commercial Hardware and Microgyro (CHμG) experiment was designed to demonstrate the feasibility of using commercial off-the-shelf modules (PC Cards) and microelectromechanical sensors (MEMS) on space missions and to obtain performance data on both in a deep-space environment so as to gain a better understanding of these two technologies which promise to substantially reduce the cost, mass and power of future spacecraft. Simultaneously, the experiment was designed to provide information and resources to Mars Pathfinder (MPF) which could enhance that mission's value. For various technical and programmatic reasons, the experiment was radically descoped and the "commercial hardware" aspect of the experiment was virtually eliminated. This paper discusses the original concept, the problems encountered in its implementation, and the current state of the experiment.
