The Mars Airplane: A Credible Science Platform
Author(s)
Braun, Robert D.
Wright, Henry S.
Croom, Mark A.
Levine, Joel S.
Spencer, David A.
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Abstract
Significant technology advances have enabled
planetary aircraft to be considered as viable science
platforms. Such systems fill a unique planetary science
measurement gap, that of regional-scale, near-surface
observation, while providing a fresh perspective for
potential discovery. Recent efforts have produced mature
mission and flight system concepts, ready for flight project
implementation. This paper summarizes the development of
a Mars airplane mission architecture that balances science,
implementation risk and cost. Airplane mission
performance, flight system design and technology readiness
are described.
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Date
2004-03
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1789214 bytes
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Text
Resource Subtype
Paper