Aerospace & Defense - September 2020
In this compendium of recent articles from the editors of Tech Briefs and Aerospace & Defense Technology, you'll learn about the technology driving the Mars 2020 rover, how NASA will use GPS to navigate around the Moon, the critical role of sensors in electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, and much more. Brought to you by NI, the leader in automated test and measurement systems.
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Overview
The September 2020 Special Report on Aerospace & Defense covers significant advancements in technology and engineering within the aerospace sector, particularly focusing on Mars exploration and military applications.
One of the key highlights is the descent of NASA's Curiosity rover, which utilized a novel skycrane maneuver to land on Mars. This technique involves lowering the rover on a tether from its descent stage, which is then detached to allow the descent stage to fly away after touchdown. The upcoming Perseverance rover is set to employ the same landing system, showcasing the evolution of landing technologies for extraterrestrial missions.
The report also delves into the performance of millimeter-wave (MMW) systems, particularly in military applications. It discusses the challenges posed by unwanted signal reflections that can degrade performance, especially in the MMW bands (30 GHz to 500 GHz). To combat these issues, microwave engineers use isolators, specifically Faraday rotation isolators, which allow signals to pass in one direction while absorbing them in the opposite direction, thereby reducing noise and improving the signal-to-noise ratio. However, standard isolators face challenges in extreme environments, prompting innovations such as cryogenic-capable isolators that enhance performance by lowering noise levels.
Additionally, the report addresses the importance of test and measurement strategies in aerospace and defense. Organizations are increasingly required to integrate new technologies while managing legacy systems. The report emphasizes the need for modern software analysis and verification tools to ensure the reliability and quality of aerospace assets. It discusses best practices for managing costs and risks associated with testing and verification, highlighting the balance between adopting new technologies and maintaining support for long-standing systems.
The report also touches on the Artemis missions, which aim to return humans to the Moon and establish a sustainable presence there. NASA is exploring the use of GPS technology for lunar navigation, which could significantly enhance mission capabilities and safety.
Furthermore, the report includes insights into the development of electrical vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, showcasing the integration of multiple sensors to improve performance and safety. It also highlights advancements in sensor technology, such as the fabrication and electrical characterization of new devices for high-speed electronics.
In summary, the September 2020 Special Report on Aerospace & Defense provides a comprehensive overview of the latest technological advancements in space exploration and military applications. It emphasizes the critical role of innovative engineering solutions in overcoming challenges, enhancing performance, and ensuring the success of future missions, both on Mars and beyond. The report serves as a valuable resource for understanding the current landscape of aerospace technology and its implications for future exploration and defense initiatives.
