Architecting Near-Term Ocean Worlds Subsurface Access Mission Concepts
Abstract
Recent Planetary Science Decadal Surveys have placed a high priority on the science exploration of our solar system's Ocean Worlds such as Europa and Enceladus. To pursue the development of an overarching science-driven mission framework for a series of potential Ocean Worlds surface and subsurface access mission concepts, new robotic system capabilities will need to be established. One such capability under consideration is a radioisotope thermoelectric generator-powered descent probe capable of rapid penetration and in-situ scientific sampling of tens of km-thick ice shells down to the ice-ocean interface where it would deliver an autonomous science explorer payload. Understanding the key Concept of Operations for this cryobot throughout all mission phases is essential to defining its necessary functionalities, and their corresponding critical technology drivers. A potential path forward to successfully develop viable near-term solutions and demonstrate concept feasibility will be discussed.
- Publication:
-
43rd COSPAR Scientific Assembly. Held 28 January - 4 February
- Pub Date:
- January 2021
- Bibcode:
- 2021cosp...43E.480F