LUNAR UNCOVERING AGGREGATION & NAVIGATION SAMPLE RETURN MISSION CONCEPT

Abstract

Project Goal: To collect, analyze, and return samples from multiple locations on the lunar surface to the International Space Station. Studying the composition of the moon is a critical scientific effort because it provides valuable data that writes the story about the formation of the entire Solar System. Much is still unknown about the composition of the majority of the Lunar surface. This project aims to increase our understanding of the moon by collecting samples and characterizing the surface magnetic anomalies of multiple lunar locations. This design features four vehicles: an orbiter, lander, rover, and sample return craft. The mission concept of operations features multiple descents and ascents to collect surface samples from various lunar surface locations. The rover is designed with two robotic arms allowing for rapid sample collection, in-situ analysis of the samples, and expansive magnetic field measurements. The rover’s onboard computer will control its immediate movements and data collections while giving scientists the ability to plan and control its destinations and actions at the macro-level. The rover is then able to re-enter the lander, transfer the samples to the return crafts, and ascend to low lunar orbit in which the samples are deployed back to the ISS.