DocumentCode
2567737
Title
Optimizing science return from Titan aerial explorers
Author
Lorenz, Ralph D.
Author_Institution
Lunar & Planetary Lab., Arizona Univ., Tucson, AZ, USA
Volume
7
fYear
2000
fDate
2000
Firstpage
493
Abstract
This paper explores the scientific challenges of post-Cassini exploration of Titan, Saturn´s giant, hazy moon. In particular, the scientific objectives are addressed, and the vehicle types that might be most appropriate are considered, paying particular attention to the energy required for mobility, for acquiring data, and downlinking it to Earth, and to the rate at which science data can be acquired. While many mission types are possible, a helicopter mission, flying only 10% of the time, may offer the best overall scientific return
Keywords
Saturn; planetary satellites; space vehicles; Saturn satellite; Titan aerial explorer; helicopter mission; vehicle; Atmosphere; Ice; Moon; Nitrogen; Ocean temperature; Optical surface waves; Photochemistry; Satellites; Sea surface; Solar system;
fLanguage
English
Publisher
ieee
Conference_Titel
Aerospace Conference Proceedings, 2000 IEEE
Conference_Location
Big Sky, MT
ISSN
1095-323X
Print_ISBN
0-7803-5846-5
Type
conf
DOI
10.1109/AERO.2000.879317
Filename
879317
Link To Document