Since it was awarded a contract to study the feasibility of return samples of Mars back Earth, EADS Space has come up with two different directions. The first is to launch the sample ascent vehicle from the surface of Mars and dock with the return vehicle in space. In the second design, the ascent vehicle would reach orbit and then eject the samples for the return vehicle to “catch”. How the samples are returned to Earth will make a big difference on the mission’s cost, mass and complexity.
January 15th, 2004
Mini-Van Sized Rover for 2009 Universe Today
If you think the Mars rovers are interesting, wait until you see a mini-van clambering over the planet’s red rocks and dusty lake beds. The two golf-cart size rovers that are mesmerizing the country now are preparing the way for a 2009 mission to Mars called the Mars Scientific Laboratory, says William Hiscock, head of the physics department and director of the Montana Space Grant Consortium based at Montana State University-Bozeman. The 2009 mission will involve a rover, too, but that vehicle will be the size of a mini-van.
January 15th, 2004
Martian Gravity To Be Tested on Mice Universe Today
Students and researchers at MIT are designing a space mission to learn about the effects of Mars-level gravity using pint-sized astronauts. The 15 mouse-trounauts will orbit Earth for five weeks to help researchers learn how Martian gravity – about one-third that of Earth – will affect the mammalian body. The mouse cages will be designed for comfort and protection with room for the little travelers to lope around for exercise in the simulated gravity of Mars.
February 6th, 2001
Hop to It! ‘Down Under’ Research Helps International Mars Effort Universe Today
The links between the ‘Red Planet’ and the Red Centre are stronger than you might imagine, with a team of young Australians actively helping international research efforts aimed at sending human beings to Mars. Jennifer Laing talks to Guy Murphy, National Coordinator of the Australian Chapter of the Mars Society, about the work they are doing to develop prototype vehicles for testing in the outback. As a keen student of early Australian history, Guy Murphy, National Coordinator of the Australian Chapter of the Mars Society doesn’t think it’s unusual that Australia should play a role in paving the way for human exploration of Mars.
December 6th, 2000
Putting the Pressure On Universe Today
Mechanical Counter Pressure (MCP) technology appears to offer a number of advantages over the existing EVA suit. Says Waldie, “To protect astronauts from the vacuum of space, MCP suits substitute gas pressure with elastic compression, or mechanical pressure. The suit is comprised of different skin-tight layers, the outermost being a powerful elastic leotard capable of exerting the same pressure on the body as current space suits (about 1/3 atmospheric pressure). Only the head and part of the torso will be pressurized with breathing oxygen. Such an elastic suit would be light and provide vast improvements in flexibility and size. As rips or tears would remain a localized defect, MCP garments are also inherently safe. Furthermore, the porous nature of the materials enables perspiration to occur naturally – this means that cooling equipment is redundant.” The MCP suit will be perfect for exploration of the lunar and Mars’ surfaces, due to its increased flexibility and reduced bulk. It will also make carrying out an EVA easier for astronauts.