Smallsat to the Moon: A Science Opportunity on a Communications and Navigation Service Provider

Paper number

IAC-07-B4.2.04

Author

Mr. Andy Phipps, Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd., United Kingdom

Coauthor

Prof. Martin Sweeting, Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd., United Kingdom

Coauthor

Mr. Alex da Silva Curiel, Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd., United Kingdom

Coauthor

Mr. Philip Davies, Surrey Space Centre, University of Surrey, United Kingdom

Coauthor

Mr. Mark Taylor, Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd., United States

Coauthor

Dr. Adam M. Baker, Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd., United Kingdom

Year

2007

Abstract

Small, low-cost missions have become highly successful in recent years, with outstanding results and many scientific and commercial users. The capabilities of small satellite have also seen dramatic improvement, and have matured to the point where such missions offer huge potential for space exploration. In previous centuries, nations and organisations participating in exploration have gained significant economic benefits from the endeavour.  Leadership and a modest investment in space exploration can now position the UK as a key player in this area. 
SSTL has been investigating lunar missions since 1996, and has conducted numerous in-house, ESA funded and most recently nationally funded studies for the UK government. However the prospect of small, affordable spacecraft regularly visiting the Moon and providing useful scientific returns has not yet been achieved.
This paper focuses on the development and current project status of a low-cost lunar small satellite mission.   This mission focuses  on providing surface assets with communications and navigation services, and also offers the potential to offer a space science platform (including surface penetrators) for affordable science missions.  Additionally it will act as a proving ground for technologies essential for the robotic exploration of Mars and beyond,  de-risking larger programmes such as EXOMars and MSR.

Abstract document

IAC-07-B4.2.04.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-07-B4.2.04.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

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