Published January 6, 2020
| public
Book Section - Chapter
Conceptual Development of AeroDrop: Aerocapture and Direct Entry for Two Spacecraft on a Common Approach Trajectory
- Creators
- Albert, Samuel W.
- Braun, Robert D.
Abstract
The ability to deliver an orbiter and a lander from the same cruise stage and approach trajectory is desirable. However, the use of propulsive maneuvers to accomplish these objectives is operationally risky. AeroDrop provides the ability for an orbiter and a probe to reach their desired states from a single set of entry conditions due to differences in geometry and control approach. In this investigation, the concept of AeroDrop is introduced and its performance assessed. AeroDrop is shown to be feasible for a small range of entry conditions for uncontrolled ballistic vehicles and for a larger range of entry conditions when at least one vehicle is lift-modulated. The feasibility of AeroDrop is shown for both Earth and Mars entry.
Additional Information
© 2020 by the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Inc. Published Online: 5 Jan 2020.Additional details
- Eprint ID
- 109707
- Resolver ID
- CaltechAUTHORS:20210701-175609869
- Created
-
2021-07-02Created from EPrint's datestamp field
- Updated
-
2021-07-06Created from EPrint's last_modified field
- Other Numbering System Name
- AIAA Paper
- Other Numbering System Identifier
- 2020-1737