Vehicle development of Lunar/Mars exploration

Abstract

The author of this paper presents a historical discussion of robotic vehicle development of lunar and Martian exploration. The discussion begins by comparing and contrasting the transportation, environmental, and operational requirements of the two planets. This is followed by a historical summary of what has been done to date, including some recently released information on the Soviet rovers sent to Mars and Phobos in the early 1970s. Finally, current proposed missions, vehicles, operational requirements, and development status are discussed.