Measurements from an aerial vehicle: a new tool for planetary exploration

Henry S. Wright; Joel S. Levine; Mark A. Croom; William C. Edwards; Garry D. Qualls; Joseph F. Gasbarre

doi:10.1117/12.580360

30 December 2004 Measurements from an aerial vehicle: a new tool for planetary exploration

Henry S. Wright, Joel S. Levine, Mark A. Croom, William C. Edwards, Garry D. Qualls, Joseph F. Gasbarre

Proceedings Volume 5660, Instruments, Science, and Methods for Geospace and Planetary Remote Sensing; (2004) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.580360
Event: Fourth International Asia-Pacific Environmental Remote Sensing Symposium 2004: Remote Sensing of the Atmosphere, Ocean, Environment, and Space, 2004, Honolulu, Hawai'i, United States

Abstract

Aerial vehicles fill a unique planetary science measurement gap, that of regional-scale, near-surface observation, while providing a fresh perspective for potential discovery. Aerial vehicles used in planetary exploration bridge the scale and resolution measurement gaps between orbiters (global perspective with limited spatial resolution) and landers (local perspective with high spatial resolution) thus complementing and extending orbital and landed measurements. Planetary aerial vehicles can also survey scientifically interesting terrain that is inaccessible or hazardous to landed missions. The use of aerial assets for performing observations on Mars, Titan, or Venus will enable direct measurements and direct follow-ons to recent discoveries. Aerial vehicles can be used for remote sensing of the interior, surface and atmosphere of Mars, Venus and Titan. Types of aerial vehicles considered are airplane “heavier than air” and airships and balloons “lighter than air.” Interdependencies between the science measurements, science goals and objectives, and platform implementation illustrate how the proper balance of science, engineering, and cost, can be achieved to allow for a successful mission. Classification of measurement types along with how those measurements resolve science questions and how these instruments are accommodated within the mission context are discussed.

Citation Download Citation

Henry S. Wright, Joel S. Levine, Mark A. Croom, William C. Edwards, Garry D. Qualls, and Joseph F. Gasbarre "Measurements from an aerial vehicle: a new tool for planetary exploration", Proc. SPIE 5660, Instruments, Science, and Methods for Geospace and Planetary Remote Sensing, (30 December 2004); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.580360

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