MEC651 Mechanics and Thermodynamics of Propulsion

Design Project

Mars Rover Mission Rocket Design Project

Conceptual Design Project Create a conceptual design of all the rocket stages in a space launcher that is designed to deliver a 10 kg robotic rover to the surface of the planet Mars.
Create a conceptual design of all the rocket stages in a multi-staged space launcher that is designed to launch from the Earths surface into orbit, leave orbit and transit to Mars, enter Mars orbit, and send a 350 kg lander (also called a spacecraft) that contains a 10 kg (65 cm long x 50 cm wide x 30 cm high) rover to the surface of Mars. The rocket design should include the following estimates (if relevant) about each stage: motor performance (e.g. FN, Isp, C* etc.), size, propellant selection, thrust chamber design, nozzle design, grain configuration, feed systems, and ignition systems. All assumptions made in this analysis must be based on reliable references (e.g. journal or conference papers, official websites, books, etc.) which must be listed. Little information is purposively given for this project; requiring that extensive research first be done to generate the requirements. When the conceptual design is complete, a multimedia presentation must be prepared showing the requirements (include reference sources), a CAD model of the design, a sub-scaled display model, and analysis proving that the design meets these requirements. The display model should be appropriately sized and constructed so that is can be used in your presentation to demonstrate how each of the stages separate and how spacecraft separates as it transits to Mars. It will be used in your multi-media presentation to the audience (Prof. Dr. Wirachman Wisnoe and the other peer groups). This presentation will compete with other design teams. The presentation will be peer reviewed (50% of mark) and lecturer reviewed (50% of marks). A CDROM of your presentation must be submitted to the lecturer. This is a rocket propulsion project, so the only detail of the lander/rover that must be designed relates to its method of descent (assuming a rocket is used). It can descend in many ways (e.g. rocket, parachute, etc.). The mass of the lander/rover will also be required for doing the Tsiolkovsky V estimation. Other than that, provide just a general description of how it lands, deploys the rover, and operates. The sensors and electronic equipment onboard the lander/rover is open to your creativity and should just generally be described (without analysis). Fit the lander/rover into your CAD and display model (noting the volume given).