Abstract
Mars Sample Return (MSR) architecture and mission engineering, led
by Boeing for JPL, is presented. The study sought credible data to
support planning a 2011 mission to return 500g of scientifically
selected samples. Phase 1 compared diverse architecture options to
accomplish the mission. 17 theme-based architectures were conceived,
quantified, measured, and scored. Two primary and three secondary
architectures were recommended. Phase 2 developed engineering detail
for a simple architecture specified by JPL: dual mission to two landing
sites; short-range, radioisotope-powered sampling rovers; Mars orbit
rendezvous; and electric return propulsion with Shuttle rendezvous.
The design comprises nine system elements. Solutions for sample handling
and breaking the back contamination chain are detailed. Total mission
duration is five years. Technology tailoring, rather than technology
creation, is required. Mission development cost, including margins
and wraps, is $2.813. The study concluded that many schemes can feasibly
accomplish Mars sample return, depending on program objectives adopted.
(C) 2003 International Astronautical Federation. Published by Elsevier
Science Ltd. All rights reserved.
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