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Magnetohydrodynamic aerobraking to enable landing of heavy payloads on Mars (2017–2021)

Abstract:
In the thin atmosphere of Mars, aerodynamic drag alone is not enough to land a spacecraft larger than 1 tonne. A human mission to Mars requires landing of payloads up to 80 tonne. The aim of this project is to experimentally explore how to increase vehicle deceleration by applying a magnetic field to the hot ionized gases which form around the vehicle. Interaction of the magnetic field with the ionized flow provides a path for dissipating kinetic energy and can reduce surface heating. The significance of this project is its potential to make Mars-return missions feasible by enabling greatly increased payloads. The project aims to deliver the first-ever evaluation of magnetohydrodynamic braking and heat mitigation at true flight conditions.
Grant type:
ARC Discovery Early Career Researcher Award
Researchers:

  • Dr David Gildfind

    Senior Lecturer
    School of Mechanical and Mining Engineering
    Faculty of Engineering, Architecture and Information Technology
    Senior Lecturer
    School of Mechanical and Mining Engineering
    Faculty of Engineering, Architecture and Information Technology
Funded by:
Australian Research Council