Mars Gravity Biosatellite: Engineering, Science, and Education
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Author(s)
Korzun, Ashley M.
Braun, Robert D.
Wagner, Erika B.
Fulford-Jones, Thaddeus R.F.
Deems, Elizabeth C.
Judnick, Daniel C.
Keesee, John E.
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Abstract
The Mars Gravity Biosatellite is a novel program aimed at providing data on the effects of partial gravity
on mammalian physiology. Physiological problems intrinsic to prolonged stays in microgravity have
long been concerns of manned spaceflight and will continue to be a significant obstacle in achieving the
goals outlined in NASA’s Vision for Space Exploration. This student-developed, free-flyer spacecraft is
designed to carry a payload of 15 mice into low Earth orbit, rotating to generate an acceleration
environment equivalent to Martian gravity. After 35 days, the payload will be de-orbited and recovered
for study. Data collected during the mission and post-recovery will be used to characterize the
physiological changes incurred under partial gravity conditions and validate the models used in designing
the spacecraft. This paper presents the preliminary design of the spacecraft. By providing
groundbreaking flight data on the effects of partial gravity on mammalian physiology and engaging over
500 students to date, the Mars Gravity Biosatellite program is working to enable successful human
exploration of the Moon and Mars while training and inspiring a new generation of scientists and
engineers.
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Date
2007-09
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Paper