Mars Sample Recovery Helicopter: Rotorcraft to Retrieve the First Samples from the Martian Surface

Abstract

The Mars Sample Return Mission (MSR) will carry the next set of Mars helicopters, Sample Recovery Helicopters (SRHs), to the Martian surface. After successfully demonstrating extraterrestrial flight in 2021, Ingenuity has acted as a "scout" for the Perseverance rover while the rover gathers samples of Martian soil. In 2028, the MSR mission will launch a lander and two Ingenuity-sized SRHs to retrieve these samples. These will be the first samples of the Martian surface delivered to Earth. The SRH project will maintain heritage from Ingenuity's design when possible. However, several key changes must be made, including a ground mobility system, a robotic arm for tube manipulation, and the ability to carry the weight of a science payload (the sample tubes). In addition, the onboard software and cameras will be upgraded, and the rotor radius will be increased. Furthermore, new rotor performance and flight dynamics models and thorough characterization of vehicle limits will be required. The new vehicle design will be described, as well as validation and verification efforts to date. Note: The decision to implement Mars Sample Return will not be finalized until NASA's completion of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) process.