Ad-Hoc Wireless Sensor networks for exploration of solar-system bodies

Paper number

IAC-06-A3.4.02

Author

Dr. Philippe Dubois, EPFL, Switzerland

Coauthor

Prof. Carlo Menon, Simon Fraser University, Canada

Coauthor

Prof. Herbert Shea, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Switzerland

Year

2006

Abstract

Wireless networks of sensor nodes are an emerging technology that will enable new exploration mission scenarios. In this work we present several novel scenarios that are enabled by ad-hoc wireless sensor networks (WSN), i.e. networks where all nodes (either moving or stationary) can both provide and relay data. The main scientific advantage of such a network over other approaches such as a single rover or a single spacecraft is the large amount of data that can be simultaneously collected from numerous locations. 
Space scenarios involving WSNs will face major technical challenges concerning: node size, power consumption, energy scavenging, reliability in harsh environments, RF communication, and the need for self-organization and localization. In contrast to most WSNs developed for terrestrial applications, space applications will require self-organization of the ad-hoc network, i.e. data routes are not defined ahead of time and evolve when nodes fail or drift apart.  In addition, in almost all space scenarios, the node locations are unknown after deployment, so there is a requirement for node self-localization to draw a topological map of the network. These two aspects of self-organization and localization are the major challenges to overcome to achieve a reliable network for a variety of missions. 
The first group of scenarios we evaluated concerns nodes moving relative to each other either above or on the surface of a solar system object. These scenarios enable collecting data simultaneously over a large surface especially when a cloud of sensors is deployed through the atmosphere of a planet. Atmospheric measurements include gas concentration, pressure, temperature and wind speed while ground-based data also include rock and soil property measurements. 
The second group of scenarios we considered concerns the use of nodes fixed in or on the ground of an asteroid or planet. In this case, the level of complexity is lower as the node location is fixed obviating the need to dynamically update the topology of the network. Valuable data such as shock wave propagation in an asteroid, local atmospheric circulation, seismic measurements, ground and atmospheric composition of a planet could be collected over a long period of time.
Emerging highly integrated technologies are investigated in this paper and a robust and reliable solution for a reconfigurable network of sensors is analyzed and discussed. 

Abstract document

IAC-06-A3.4.02.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-06-A3.4.02.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

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