Mars aerobrake assembly demonstration

Abstract

NASA has identified aerobraking as a potentially critical technology for the Space Exploration Initiative (SEI). The size of Mars aerobrakes may be beyond the capabilities of future launch vehicles to place them into orbit in one launch. On-orbit assembly using facilities and operations developed under the Space Station Freedom (SSF) Program represent one approach for realizing such large structures. the results of early testing in this subject can help influence the future evolution of the SSF. The objectives are to: (1) generate empirical data on operational procedures for on-orbit assembly of a large Mars aerobrake; (2) develop aerobrake design concepts; (3) identify critical issues and requirements associated with SSF utilization; and (4) to stimulate student participation in the SEI.