Orbital Exploration of Phobos by a Nano-satellite using Solar Electric Propulsion

Phobos and Deimos form the most feasible bridge between human exploration missions to the Martian surface and the asteroid belt. Using In-Situ-Resource-Utilization, they can become ideal refuelling stations for spacecraft, facilitating a communication network and transportation of goods to provide operation infrastructure to create a sustainable Martian ecosystem. They also serve as the ideal technology and expertise demonstration platforms in the martian system before attempting a surface expedition to Mars. The challenges in utilizing these moons include a lack of knowledge in the topography, geological activity, and surface makeup. Phobos can also help us determine the evolution and origin of these moons. This paper proposes an orbital exploration mission to Phobos using a nanosatellite deployed in Martian orbit by a larger orbiter. It would later position itself in a quasi synchronous orbit around Phobos for at least one Martian year (1.88 Earth years). Simulation of the mission is done using the General Mission Analysis Tool (GMAT). Suitable payloads are chosen to topographically map the surface of Phobos to understand its surface composition and geological processes. The satellite mass and power budget estimate is determined by studying COTS components. The propulsion architecture involves solar electric propulsion with a propellant agnostic approach to curb the expenditure. On this basis, comparisons on COTS electric thrusters that can be deployed in this mission are carried out.