Mars balloon simulator

Abstract In the framework of Mars exploration, CNES is in charge of the development of a balloon system (aerostat). During the Soviet Mars 94/96 missions, one aerostat will be injected into the atmosphere of the Mars northern hemisphere and will fly vast distances over the martian surface. The scientific payload is in two sections: an aerial payload (gondola) which is maintained off the ground and a special “snake” payload (guiderope). The payload will improve our knowledge of Mars by in situ investigation during about 10 days. The design and the prediction of the vehicle behaviour on Mars requires a simulator to compute the vehicle performance during the various phases of the mission: balloon deployment and inflation, daily atmospheric flight and night displacement when the guiderope is gliding on the Mars surface. This paper presents the concept and structure of the Mars Balloon Simulator, the results of the validation test program and how Mars engineering model impacts the aerostat design and performance.