A Novel Approach to Interstellar Object Exploration Using Small Spacecraft
Publisher
The University of Arizona.Rights
Copyright © is held by the author. Digital access to this material is made possible by the University Libraries, University of Arizona. Further transmission, reproduction, presentation (such as public display or performance) of protected items is prohibited except with permission of the author.Abstract
In 2014, the first interstellar object known to mankind hit the Earth and sunk inthe Pacific Ocean. Two more objects were observed shortly after in 2017 and 2019. Interstellar objects are believed to be planetesimals or chunks of rock that were knocked off planetary bodies during the formation and early evolution processes of neighboring solar systems in the Milky Way. As a result, they are believed to contain a great wealth of data that could further our understanding of exoplanets, extra-solar systems and the formation of our solar system. Carrying out a mission to an ISO would enhance our knowledge of near-Earth asteroids (NEAs) and allow us to develop a more effective planetary defense system. This thesis explores different techniques and technologies that would simplify our approach to such endeavor.Type
Electronic Thesistext
Degree Name
M.S.Degree Level
mastersDegree Program
Graduate CollegeAerospace Engineering