Design of an integrated Mars communication, navigation and sensing system

Abstract

Modem navigation extensively utilizes the Global Positioning System, satellite networks are incorporated into the global communications network, and sensing systems continuously watch over and survey the Earth. On an undeveloped planet like Mars, similar technology would permit efficient and safe human and robotic exploration while providing a foundation for future colonization. A communications system would provide links between ground vehicles, orbital spacecraft and Earth. Full coverage of Mars could be satisfied by a few satellites in high altitude orbits. A global positioning system enables ground, atmospheric and orbital navigation, and effortless surface mapping. For accurate positioning, however, many satellites must be in sight at once. These conflicting requirements provide a challenging design problem. This study considers an integrated system architecture to meet a given set of requirements which will support human and robotic exploration of Mars. While the total system mass is at least 40,000 kg, but usually not more than 140,000 in exceptional cases, future studies should reduce this number with minimal loss of pet-for-mace. Overall, the MCNSS system provides robust, continuous capability and will be a significant factor in the successful exploration of Mars.