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Science-Enabling Atmospheric Entry at Venus
Completed
TRL 3 (started at 1, targeting 3)
Description
The Science-Enabling Atmospheric Entry at Venus demonstrates the revolutionary in situ science at Venus enabled by replacing the rigid aeroshell concept used by the 1970's Pioneer-Venus (PV) probes with ADEPT. The project will develop a delta-design that builds on the VITaL Decadal Survey mission concept (D-VITaL) but implements the ADEPT aero-entry system instead of the PV rigid aeroshell. The challenge is quantify the overall mass and qualification savings of the D-VITaL mission The project tasks include identifying appropriate flight entry scenarios and refine entry parameters in collaboration with Ames; developing new mechanical design and entry operations scenarios; assess mass/volume/qualification savings; and estimate cost savings enabled by ADEPT.
Benefits
As a result of this project, Goddard will be better prepared to succeed with a potential future Venus New Frontiers mission proposal.
Details
| Program | Center Innovation Fund: GSFC CIF (GSFC CIF) |
| Lead organization | Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, MD |
| Start date | 2011-10-01 |
| End date | 2012-09-01 |
Project contacts
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How to get involved
This is early/mid-stage (TRL 3) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.
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