ENTRY DESCENT AND LANDING SYSTEMS FOR FUTURE MISSIONS

Paper number

IAC-08.A3.1.10

Author

Mr. Joel Poncy, ThalesAlenia Space, France

Coauthor

Dr. Patrick Arfi, Thales Alenia Space France, France

Coauthor

Mr. Denis Lebleu, Thales Alenia Space France, France

Coauthor

Ms. Anne marie Schipper, Thales Alenia Space, France

Year

2008

Abstract

In 2005, the Huygens probe, designed by Thales Alenia Space France, successfully completed its entry, descent in Titan’s atmosphere. In the frame of the Aurora Exploration Program, ESA initiated industrial studies for the ExoMars mission. Thales Alenia Space France-led consortium was awarded the contract for design, development and manufacturing of the Entry and Descent System under Thales Alenia Space-Italy mission prime. Huygens and ExoMars constitute major European milestones  in the field of atmospheric entry and descent. 

Eight out of the ten bodies larger than Mercury in the Solar System have a significant atmosphere to descent in, either to reach a solid surface, or to explore the atmosphere itself. The gained experience in Entry Descent and Landing design will enhance European industry capability to lead or contribute to  future planetary exploration missions. 

This paper assesses the different environments and conditions that Entry Descent and Landing Systems will meet. It discusses how Europe’s Huygens and ExoMars experience will apply in such environments and identifies the critical technologies needed to complement it. It concludes on the preliminary roadmap for the related technological development.

Abstract document

IAC-08.A3.1.10.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-08.A3.1.10.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

To get the manuscript, please contact IAF Secretariat.