Evaluation of the separation mechanism of the asteroid landing module MASCOT by analyzing test data of a microgravity experiment

Kurzfassung

In the context of a scientifc research mission to an asteroid a small landing system (MASCOT) for measurements on the asteroids surface is examined. MASCOT will be delivered close to the surface with another space craft and will then be descend to perform the mission. Due to the very long communication way and the relatively short life span of the lander, it should be able to fully autonomous cope with its mission. The mission consist of the landing sequence, from the separation of the main ship until the drop down on the surface, the initiation of the mobility function and activation of the different scientifc instruments.Following the first MASCOT Separation Experiment during the 19th DLR Parabolic Flight Campaign undertaken in Bordeaux, France, in February 2012, the second MASCOT Separation Experiment utilized the ZARM Drop Tower in Bremen taking advantage of the close vicinity of the facility and the high grade of achievable Microgravity. During this experiment, conducted in March 2013, an engineering model of the MASCOT Asteroid Lander and an improved separation mechanism was tested for its performance in near zero gravity condition. The separation process is a decisive factor for the outcome of the later mission. In context of this bachelor´s thesis the separation experiment is analyzed in detail and describes all regarding components and systems.