The Cubesat Application for Planetary Entry Missions (CAPE) concept describes a high-performing Cubesat system which includes a propulsion module and miniaturized technologies capable of surviving atmospheric entry heating, while reliably transmitting scientific and engineering data. The Micro Return Capsule (MIRCA) is CAPEs first planetary entry probe flight prototype. Within this context, this paper briefly describes CAPEs configuration and typical operational scenario, and summarizes ongoing work on the design and basic aerodynamic characteristics of the prototype MIRCA vehicle. CAPE not only opens the door to new planetary mission capabilities, it also offers relatively low-cost opportunities especially suitable to university participation.


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    Title :

    Cubesat Application for Planetary Entry (CAPE) Missions: Micro-Reentry Capsule (MIRCA)


    Contributors:

    Conference:

    International Workshop on Instrumentation for Planetary Missions (IPM-2014) ; 2014 ; Greenbelt, MD, United States


    Publication date :

    2014-11-04


    Type of media :

    Miscellaneous


    Type of material :

    No indication


    Language :

    English