MASCOT - Structures design and qualification of an "organic" mobile pander platform for low gravity bodies

Kurzfassung

The DLR Mobile Asteroid Surface Scout (MASCOT) is an approx. 10kg shoebox-sized lander platform developed in cooperation with CNES and JAXA for the Hayabusa 2 Asteroid Mission heading to the C-class asteroid 1999 JU3. MASCOT carries four scientific instruments as well as a mobility mechanism for up righting and relocation on the asteroid during autonomous operation. The MASCOT system is subdivided in two main structural composite parts, the Landing Module (LM), housing all experiments and sub-systems, and the Mechanical and Electrical Support Structure (MESS). It provides the LM’s interface to Hayabusa 2 until separation. This paper provides an insight into the structural design concept, development and corresponding mechanical flight qualification for both parts.