Space Calls

Abstract

This article focuses on the exploration of our solar system that has, in a very literal sense, extended the reach of mankind. Developing the technology of that exploration has extended immensely the capacity of engineering. The new technologies and key capabilities being developed include intelligent robotics, advanced propulsion systems, power generation, avionics, telecommunications, and instruments. Technology for sample acquisition and return encompasses power and propulsion, robust landing, sensors, handling and packaging systems, ascent vehicles, and autonomous rendezvous and capture systems. Measures are needed to ensure that the samples are not contaminated during collection or the return to Earth, and that samples cause no harm to the Earth's environment. Some of the future solar system missions will experience extreme environments. The extreme cold and intense radiation around Europa, or the searing heat and crushing pressure of Venus, would limit the lifetime of systems built with present technology to just minutes. Improved pressure vessels, thermal control, environmentally tolerant electronics, and low-power systems are needed to prolong the lives of vehicles and instruments for these missions.