Physics-based Modeling and Tool Development for the Characterization and Uncertainty Quantification of Crater Formation and Ejecta Dynamics due to Plume-surface Interaction

Plume-Surface Interaction (PSI) is a phenomena that is expected to have major implications during future interplanetary missions. PSI can cause landers to be unstable upon touchdown due to crater formation and set the eroded surface regolith into high-velocity projectile trajectories. These can damage the lander, surrounding structures and valuable scientific equipment. To understand the relevant mechanisms and facilitate the development and validation of predictive models, NASA conducted a series of subscale experiments that generated datasets that span a vast parameter space. To expedite this process, this project aims to develop and implement tools to extract critical data from these experimental measurements, identify and classify dominant regimes, develop physics-based, semi-empirical models to predict the PSI phenomena, and quantify the uncertainties. The novel tools developed will aid in significantly streamlining the rapid and efficient extraction of PSI data from existing and subsequent NASA test campaigns. Further, the models developed will significantly enhance the capabilities to predict PSI regimes and the associated risks. The physics based reduced order models will enable rapid prediction of ejecta dynamics from cratering data and real-time estimation of ejecta dynamics from on-board SCALPSS data. The uncertainty quantification tools will define confidence levels in PSI models and regimes.

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