SH019-10
Considerations for a Pragmatic Interstellar Probe Mission

Wednesday, 9 December 2020: 06:06
Virtual
James D Kinnison1, Reza Ashtari2, Pontus C. Brandt3, Alice Cocoros1, David Copeland4, Glen H Fountain1, Douglas S. Mehoke5, Gabe Rogers2, Wayne Schlei2, Smith Clay2 and Sally Whitley2, (1)Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory, Laurel, MD, United States, (2)Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory, Laurel, United States, (3)Johns Hopkins Univ/APL, Laurel, MD, United States, (4)Johns Hopkins University, Applied Physics Laboratory, Laurel, United States, (5)Applied Physics Laboratory Johns Hopkins, Laurel, MD, United States
Recorded Presentation
Abstract:
Recent advances in spacecraft technology and practical experience in operating missions in the outer heliosphere have shown that an Interstellar Probe launching in the 2030s can be accomplished. However, a pragmatic approach must be taken if such a mission is to be launched in the next decade, including the use wherever possible of existing or nearly mature technology. This philosophy imposes constraints on the design of an Interstellar Probe, especially in areas such as launch and trajectory to achieve high speed; communication from distances as high as 1000 AU; design of a long-lived, highly reliable spacecraft; and operations over as much as 50 years. In this paper, we will present results from an on-going trade study to demonstrate a set of feasible mission concepts that will provide access to the unexplored regions beyond the boundary of our Solar System.
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