Summary

Description

<p>The ADEPT Project is developing a mechanically deployable low-ballistic coefficient aeroshell entry system to perform entry descent landing (EDL) functions for planetary missions.  This concept would be used to safely deploy scientific payloads or enable long-term human exploration to other planets with their associated cargo needs.  The deployable idea allows mission planners to develop an aeroshell design that fits within existing launch vehicle systems, and yet prior to the EDL mission segment, transforms into a low ballistic coefficient configuration.  Thus during atmospheric entry, design requirements such as heating, acceleration, and pressure profiles imparted to the entry system are significantly lowered, allowing the use of lower heat capacity TPS and lower design loads for other spacecraft components, including science instruments.</p><p> </p><p>The ADEPT Project in FY12 has successfully demonstrated the 12-layer carbon fabric system to perform at heating rates up to 250 W/cm2 under flight relevant mechanical loads.  In FY13, the project built and tested (with over 50 stow/deploy cycles) a 2m Ground Test Article to demonstrate integrated system performance and assembly techniques.</p><p>The near-term focus and technology development for this project will be on developing a 1m-class ADEPT to support Mars, Venus and Earth LEO mission scenarios.  The design approach will target an entry configuration capable of delivering 5-10 kg payloads for a Mars mission.  Component and system level testing will be performed at arc jet and wind tunnel test facilities at relevant environments, culminating in a Mach 3 sounding rocket flight demonstration test by the end of FY15.  Further technology maturation with a focus on 6m Venus New Frontiers class missions is planned for FY16 -18.  </p>