WASHINGTON - The National Aeronautics and Space Administration's (NASA) Langley Research Center is in the early stages of designing a mission to demonstrate aerocapture technology and is seeking input from potential contractors capable of providing spacecraft systems and mission operations for the project.
NASA is seeking to develop aerocapture technology, which uses a planet’s atmosphere to slow a spacecraft, reducing the need for large propulsion systems. This approach lowers launch mass requirements and increases payload capacity, making it useful for missions to distant targets such as the Solar System’s ice giants.
NASA says that two mission concepts are under consideration. Both involve a small entry capsule, known as the Aerocapture Flight System (AFS), which includes an aeroshell, a reaction control system, and a small satellite (SmallSat). In one scenario, the AFS is launched into a geostationary transfer orbit (GTO) using an Evolved Expendable Launch Vehicle (EELV) Secondary Payload Adapter (ESPA). In the other, it is released on an Earth intercept trajectory from a spacecraft returning from the Moon.
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The aerodynamic lift will be adjusted during atmospheric entry to control the spacecraft's flight path. This will be achieved using either a center-of-gravity offset or an asymmetric aerodynamic device, such as a trim tab. Government-furnished thermal protection systems will also shield the AFS from the intense heat generated during atmospheric entry. Embedded sensors in the heatshield and backshell will collect critical data on temperature and pressure, while a SmallSat-mounted flight data system will store and transmit this information. To manage trajectory adjustments and maintain attitude control throughout the mission, the AFS will rely on its reaction control system.
The SmallSat will play a key role in data collection and communication. Following its separation from the AFS, it will operate autonomously, transmitting flight data to ground stations and adhering to NASA’s orbital debris mitigation guidelines.
NASA is actively seeking input from businesses capable of contributing to the mission. This includes designing, fabricating, testing, and integrating the AFS with its key components, such as the aeroshell and reaction control system. Companies with expertise in mission design and navigation, particularly for high-energy orbits and lunar-return trajectories, are also encouraged to respond. Additionally, firms experienced in establishing ground systems and managing mission operations across all phases are invited to participate.
Additional information, including technical information, is available at https://sam.gov/opp/7407ff305e664b37947dc997e48d15bf/view. Responses are due by 15 January 2025 and must be submitted electronically via NASA’s Enterprise File Sharing and Sync Box. The primary point of contact for this project is Stacy Hollis, who can be reached at [email protected].
Jamie Whitney
Jamie Whitney joined the staff of Military & Aerospace Electronics and Intelligent Aerospace. He brings seven years of print newspaper experience to the aerospace and defense electronics industry.
Whitney oversees editorial content for the Intelligent Aerospace Website, as well as produce news and features for Military & Aerospace Electronics, attend industry events, produce Webcasts, oversee print production of Military & Aerospace Electronics, and expand the Intelligent Aerospace and Military & Aerospace Electronics franchises with new and innovative content.
