Comparison of Visual Imaging Systems for a Mars Orbiter

Obtaining high-resolution maps of Mars with an orbiter is a formidable task, since very low contrast is expected from the high orbit altitudes to which the spacecraft is constrained by planetary quarantine considerations. Furthermore, the extreme range over which the data must be transmitted severely limits the mapping rate. It is shown how the selection of an imaging system is determined by the scientific mission requirements. Two possible missions and several candidate imaging systems are considered. The method of choosing between these candidates illustrates the important selection criteria, the required trade-offs, and the interactions with the mission and spacecraft design.

Print ISSN

0361-4573

Published

1970-01

Content type

Original Research

DOI

10.5594/J16704