Unmanned aerial vehicle concept for Mars exploration

Aeronautical and Space-Rocket Engineering


DOI: 10.34759/vst-2022-4-104-115

Аuthors

Karpovich E. А.1*, Gueraiche D. 2**, Han W. 2, Tolkachev M. А.2

1. PJSC Yakovlev , 68, Leningradskiy prospect, Moscow, 125315, Russia
2. Moscow Aviation Institute (National Research University), 4, Volokolamskoe shosse, Moscow, А-80, GSP-3, 125993, Russia

*e-mail: karpovichea@mai.ru
**e-mail: guaero.tech@gmail.com

Abstract

In this study, we explored and analyzed how the design issues stemming from the Mars specific conditions have been addressed by the previous authors. The identified design trends, as well as the presented historical data on the previous Mars aircraft projects can be used as a basis for determining a future Mars aircraft mission scenario.

For several decades, scientists have been exploring Mars using orbiting spacecraft and rovers. Orbiters cover large areas and provide images of the planet surface with a resolution limited to a few meters, while rovers can analyze the composition of soil and rocks. In contrast, an aircraft flying at a low altitude above the surface of Mars will carry out a whole range of specific scientific research, mapping an area several orders of magnitude larger than a rover, with a resolution much higher than the resolution offered by modern satellites, as well as gathering valuable atmospheric data at different altitudes.

In contrast to the previous publications, the focus of the current investigation is to identify the relation between the Martian specific conditions and the design options adopted for exiting Martian aircraft projects. This will enable us to justify the design of a new fixed-wing Mars aircraft and to compose a set of relevant requirements to start the design process.

The recent improvements related to aerodynamic design, concepts of engines, energy storage and materials, have expanded the range of options for Martian unmanned aerial vehicles.

Possible missions of a future Mars science aircraft include performing a climatic, mineralogical, thermophysical and magnetic study of Mars.

The design process will be guided by the specific Mars environmental conditions (density, speed of sound, temperature, Reynolds number, dust storms, electrical phenomena, carbon dioxide carving). For a lander, Martian rugged terrain will exclude the conventional take-off and landing option. The need to deliver the aircraft to Mars and expose it to the space radiation will affect the aircraft aerodynamic layout, structural design, weight specification. The expected operating area, altitude, and season may significantly affect the design decisions in terms of aircraft configuration, geometry and total mass.

Finally, the flow field on a Mars airplane is expected to be highly complicated with a strong interaction of viscous and compressibility effects. This makes the numerical simulation of the aircraft operating in Martian atmosphere extremely challenging.

Nevertheless, the concept of a long-endurance aircraft, either solar or radioisotope powered, featuring foldable or inflatable wings and capable of flying in the Martian atmosphere seems feasible and can be considered as an option for future Mars exploration missions.

Keywords:

Mars science UAV, low-Reynolds number airfoils, Martian aircraft aerodynamic configuration

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