Patent classifications
B64G2001/1071
Current sense multi-chip module
Current sensing devices that are capable of surviving harsh ambient environment of ocean worlds, such as Jupiter and Saturn moons are disclosed. The described devices can meet 300 Krad radiation requirements and can survive at cold temperatures down to −184° C. Exemplary implementations of the constituent circuits of the devices are presented. A scheduling algorithm to perform various measurement by the disclosed current sensing devices is also described.
Onboard structure convertible into a propellant for electric propulsion
A vehicle comprising a structure, a plurality of heating sources, and a transport mechanism. The structure is comprised of multiple materials, a composite such that some of the material constituents can be extracted leaving behind others via application of energy (such as de-alloying). The extracted material or materials are configured to be re-purposed into a propellant. The plurality of heating elements surrounds or is embedded within the structure configured to convert the material into the propellant. The transport mechanism is configured to transport the propellant from the structure to a reservoir or to the propulsion system.
SUSPENDING RELEASE DEVICE FOR OBSERVING DROP VIBRATION ATTITUDE CHANGES OF LANDER AND TEST METHOD
A suspending release device for observing a drop vibration attitude change of a lander and a test method are provided. The device includes a bench system, a lifting system fixed to the bench system, a horizontal frame system, an attitude control system, and a suspending release system hinged to the attitude control system. The horizontal frame system may slide vertically on the bench system and may drive the attitude control system to slide horizontally. A test lander is fixed to a release sliding block. The release sliding block is locked with a main load bearing block. An attitude of the test lander when releasing is adjusted. The horizontal frame system is lifted to a predetermined height. Guide rods are indirectly driven to release the sliding block by a motor. The whole lander falls freely and touches the ground to collide, and the process is recorded by a high-speed camera.