Preliminary design of a multi-spacecraft mission to investigate solar system

CMA Deccia, JS Parker, S de Smet, JFC Herman, R Noomen

Research output: Chapter in Book/Conference proceedings/Edited volumeConference contributionScientificpeer-review

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Abstract

This paper discusses a mission design concept that uses high-power solar electric propulsion (SEP) to re-direct one asteroid into the path of another, generating a low-velocity impact as a means of studying solar system evolution. In order to validate existing models and gain further insight in the processes involved, a multispacecraft approach is proposed. This concept involves stationing a spacecraft at each asteroid, using them to achieve precise orbits of both asteroids, and one of the spacecraft with high-power SEP to deflect its asteroid into a low-velocity collision with the other. This study will show that it is possible to achieve asteroid collisions with a relative velocity below 10 km/s, allowing direct observations to study solar system dynamics.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationProceedings of the AAS/AIAA astrodynamics specialist conference
EditorsM Majji
Place of PublicationSpringfield
PublisherAAS
Number of pages13
Publication statusPublished - 2015
EventAAS/AIAA astrodynamics specialist conference - Springfield, Vail, United States
Duration: 9 Aug 201513 Aug 2015

Publication series

Name
PublisherAAS
NameAdvances in the Astronautical Sciences Astrodynamics
Volume156

Conference

ConferenceAAS/AIAA astrodynamics specialist conference
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityVail
Period9/08/1513/08/15

Bibliographical note

AAS 15-765

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