| | |  | ExoMars spacecraft composite | |
The Spacecraft
The nominal launcher for the ExoMars Spacecraft Composite is Ariane-5. Proton is the back-up launcher.
The ExoMars Space Segment is composed of:
- The Spacecraft Composite, which consists of:
- A Carrier Module (CM)
- A Descent Module Composite (DMC) consisting in turn of the Descent Module (DM) and the Rover Module (RM)
- The NASA Relay Orbiter (NRO)
| | | Exploded view of the complete ExoMars Descent Module including the the CM-DM adapter |
Carrier Module
The Carrier Module (CM) is the element that carries the Descent Module Composite (DMC) from Earth to Mars orbit. It allows to wait in orbit for favourable conditions before releasing the DMC into the correct trajectory for its entry, descent and landing.
The CM provides the services (that is launcher vehicle interface, propulsion, power, etc.) necessary for the cruise and Mars orbiting phases. After releasing the DMC, the CM continues in a collision course to Mars, breaking-up and burning as it enters the Martian atmosphere.
| | ExoMars Descent Module Composite (DMC) | |
Descent Module Composite
The Descent Module Composite (DMC) is the element of the mission that performs the ballistic entry, descent and landing onto the Martian surface.
Once on the surface, the DMC deploys the Lander, which accommodates the Rover Module (RM) and the Geophysical and Environmental Payload (GEP) instruments.
| | | View of the ExoMars Lander with inflated vented airbags |
The DMC is a blunt-shape entry capsule mounted on the upper side of the Carrier Module. To achieve a safe entry, descent and landing onto the Martian surface, its design includes a heatshield, parachute system, descent thrusters, reaction control system and the Lander.
The Lander features the vented airbags and the required support and egress system in order to allow the egress of the Rover and the deployment of the GEP instruments.
Last update: 1 February 2008 | |
