Small spacecraft conceptual design for a Fast Pluto Flyby mission

Abstract

The main objective of the Pluto Fast Flyby mission is to conduct first reconnaissance level science at Pluto before its atmospheric collapse in the next two to three decades. The design approach is driven by the consideration of cost (with the objective to deliver two 164-kg spacecraft to Pluto for less than 400 million dollars development cost). The paper describes the mission-design approach and the Pluto Fast Flyby conceptual flight system 1992 baseline. Attention is also given to the design history of the spacecraft concept and the current and future activity of the Pluto Fast Flyby team.