Autonomous Exploration of Small Bodies Toward Greater Autonomy for Deep Space Missions.

ABSTRACT: Autonomy is becoming increasingly important for the robotic exploration of unpredictable environments. One such example is the approach, proximity operation, and surface exploration of small bodies. In this article, we present an overview of an estimation framework to approach and land on small bodies as a key functional capability for an autonomous small-body explorer. We use a multi-phase perception/estimation pipeline with interconnected and overlapping measurements and algorithms to characterize and reach the body, from millions of kilometers down to its surface. We consider a notional spacecraft design that operates across all phases from approach to landing and to maneuvering on the surface of the microgravity body. This SmallSat design makes accommodations to simplify autonomous sur

SUBMITTER: Nesnas IAD 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8592236 | biostudies-literature | 2021

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature