Uranus Orbiter, The other proposed ice-giant mission Options

[Rob Pinnegar]

Since the Neptune Orbiter thread has started to veer into talking about a Uranus orbiter as well, it seemed like a good idea to start a topic for Uranus.

[Guest_BruceMoomaw_*]

The document for simulation tests for a Neptune orbiter -- of which there were 2000 -- is at http://library-dspace.larc.nasa.gov/dspace...a-2004-4955.pdf . That for tests for the easier Titan orbit aerocapture is at http://www.inspacepropulsion.com/tech/pubs...Performance.pdf .

[tasp]

The document for simulation tests for a Neptune orbiter -- of which there were 2000 -- is at http://library-dspace.larc.nasa.gov/dspace...a-2004-4955.pdf .  That for tests for the easier Titan orbit aerocapture is at http://www.inspacepropulsion.com/tech/pubs...Performance.pdf .

Amazing findings. Seems 'banking' the craft during the decel is the preferred technique. I thought perhaps pitch manuvers (or a combination of both) would be used. The banking technique seems (roughly) analogous to the hypersonic manuveurs the shuttle employs during earth atmosphere re-entry.

The banking technique would have obvious utility in expanding the cross range deflection for a lander type mission (at Titan, Triton, or Pluto).

Appreciate very much the information, it sure whets the appetite for future missions. Weird it may be easier to land on Pluto than Mercury . . . .