Mars Microprobe entry-to-impact analysis

The Mars Microprobe mission will provide the first opportunity for subsurfa ce measurements, including water detection, near the Mars south pole. Perfo rmance of the Microprobe aeroshell design is evaluated through development and application of a six-degree-of-freedom flight dynamics simulation. Nume rous mission uncertainties are quantified, and a Monte Carlo analysis is pe rformed to statistically assess mission performance. Results from this Mont e Carlo flight dynamics simulation demonstrate that the 3-sigma Microprobe impact footprint extends 180 x 20 km, and the aerothermodynamic and deceler ation environments are well within design specifications. The probability o f a successful impact event is assessed based on penetration data obtained through a ground-test program. The surface elevation, ground slope, and soi l hardness of the Microprobe impact site are shown to be primary drivers on mission success.