Drag modulation strategy for small satellites aerocapture on mars

This paper presents a novel approach to the aerocapture maneuver for SmallSat missions to Mars. One of the main challenges preventing the use of aerocapture in interplanetary missions is the uncertainty in atmospheric density, which arises from inaccuracies in atmospheric models or the occurrence of natural events. The proposed approach addresses this issue through a continuous drag modulation technique, which mitigates or eliminates the effects of unexpected density variations during atmospheric flight relative to the nominal density distribution. Specifically, continuous drag modulation is achieved by leveraging the ability of inflatable shields to alter their shape by adjusting the inflation pressure. Variations in atmospheric density that could cause deviations from the nominal maneuver are counteracted by corresponding adjustments in the shield’s shape, induced by changes in inflation pressure. Finally, the paper includes a preliminary discussion on the inflation system that enables this continuous drag modulation.