Conceptual Design of A Martian Reconnaissance Glider

Abstract:

Designing an aircraft for martian exploration has always been a goal for the aerospace and aeronautical industry since the 1970’s. Commercial and national corporations have installed rovers and satellites on Mars to study Martian topography. Since neither a rover nor a satellite could provide better resolution of martian topography within less time, we must explore other options such as the martian glider. This is simply because a glider can travel much farther within less time while staying close to the surface of the planet. A better resolution of martian topography is vital to choosing the best martian base for future mars settlements, and can also advance the field of martian mapmaking. This research creates small scale gliders that are cost efficient, and increases the probability of success. Thus, this increases the probability of success. Furthermore, in recent years, scientists have been increasingly interested in studying ridges and valleys that have been shaped by water instead of flat surfaces. This glider can be deployed from a larger aircraft at low altitudes which can help survey specific areas with high levels of detail. Unlike a martian airplane that uses a propulsion system, a glider does not require a propulsion system. Thus, the glider has a small mass with a lower velocity, thereby leading to high maneuverability In the future, this glider can also be launched from a rover to create paths of navigation for the rover and many other services as well.