In an effort to further explore the Jovian moon Europa, Project Asterius has nearly finished the preliminary conceptual design of a space mission to accomplish the task. This design has entailed collaborative mission concept determination, extensive research into the individual subsystems which comprise an interplanetary spacecraft, and complex integration among the various subsystems. The result is a spacecraft which we believe accomplishes all of the mission objectives without excess features. Since the primary mission is to analyze the water/ice interface of Europa, the spacecraft has been given the capability to locate thin ice from orbit, test for local features at the surface, move to the most favorable surface location, and release a prove to analyze the actual interface. We believe that this configuration presents the best possible opportunity for meaningful scientific return.
All major features of Asterius help support this very focused mission for as low a cost as possible. Costly features such as a permanent orbiter and high PuO2 content RTGs have been eliminated, and we are looking into materials for the spacecraft that are inexpensive, lightweight, and easy to manufacture. The structures we design will be simple and effective. As the detailed design of the spacecraft begins, more opportunities for streamlining the mission will undoubtedly be found and acted upon.
Upon the completion the of conceptual design phase Project Asterius will have completed a viable design proposal meeting the RFP requirements set forth by the AIAA Undergraduate Team Space Design Competition.