Solar Probe - System concepts and requirements

Abstract

The design and related constraints relevant to the development of the Solar Probe are examined with reference to the environmental conditions and mission trajectory. The science-related requirements of the Solar Probe mission include instruments with 360-deg sweep on a platform that spins at 60 rpm and carries a magnetometer on a boom. The mission trajectory of a 4-solar-radii perihelion is designed to eliminate angular velocity about the sun, and the unusual requirements of dense interplanetary dust and enhanced gamma-ray radiation are mentioned. A list of specific functional requirements that directly affect the system configuration is given which includes those for the high-gain antenna and the main shield. These requirements are translated into a full-science-scope spacecraft design, and specific mass and power estimates are given. Reduced-scope and baseline configurations are also presented that allow good scientific return with significantly reduced development costs.