A brief report presents drawings for the conceptual design of a spacecraft that would land on Mars or another remote planet. The spacecraft would have a tetrahedral shape, would include airbags to cushion impact, and would have a self-righting capability. The drawings show the general appearance of the spacecraft and show the outlines and locations of some power, propulsion, temperature-regulation, and communication equipment. This design presents significant licensing opportunities in the toy and model industries.
This work was done by Tommaso P. Rivellini, Robert Bamford, Jim Hendrickson, and Mike O'Neal of Caltech for NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. NPO-19859
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Mars lander
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Overview
The document presents a new technology report from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) detailing the design of a Mars Lander, identified by Case No. NPO-19859. The report outlines an innovative spacecraft concept intended for safe landing on planetary surfaces, particularly Mars or other remote planets.
The Mars Lander features a distinctive tetrahedral shape, which is central to its design. This geometric configuration is complemented by airbags that cushion the impact during landing, ensuring the vehicle can safely navigate rough and unknown terrains. Additionally, the spacecraft is designed with self-righting capabilities, allowing it to return to an upright position after landing, which is crucial for operational functionality and data collection.
The report emphasizes the originality of the design, highlighting that there are no existing vehicles with the same unique appearance and functionality. This uniqueness not only serves a practical purpose in space exploration but also presents significant licensing opportunities within the toy and model industries, suggesting potential commercial applications for the design.
The document includes contributions from a team of innovators: Tommaso P. Rivellini, Robert Bamford, Jim Hendrickson, and Michael O’Neal, all affiliated with Caltech and working under NASA's auspices. The report is part of a broader effort to develop technologies that enhance the safety and effectiveness of planetary exploration missions.
In summary, the Mars Lander represents a significant advancement in spacecraft design, combining innovative engineering with practical applications for both scientific exploration and commercial ventures. The report serves as a technical support package, providing insights into the design process and the potential impact of the Mars Lander on future missions to Mars and beyond.
