A SAMPLE HANDLING SYSTEM FOR MARS SAMPLE RETURN

摘要

A Mars Sample Return (MSR) mission presents a major milestone in the exploration of the solar system. Despite the array of scientific instrumentation brought to the surface of Mars by previous and planned missions, having access to the huge array of sensitive scientific equipment on Earth will result in a leap forward in the understanding of planetary science. Specific preparation for MSR has included the Aurora studies MSR Phase A1 and A2. This paper deals especially summarises the design of the MSR sample handling chain that transfers the sample from the Martian surface to Earth: collection from the drill to the sample vessels (SV) and sample container (SC), transfer of the SC to the Mars Ascent Vehicle (MAV), in-orbit capture of the SC, bio-sealing and transfer into the Earth Return Capsule (ERC). The sample handling architecture can be applied to static collection of sample, but more importantly, is compatible with the use of a mobile platform to collect the sample from various scientifically interesting locations. A platform the size of the current ExoMars rover would provide greater flexibility in the surface sampling as well as being able to carry a suite of instruments for a full characterization of the sampling sites.