30 Questions
How often do Mars and Earth have a suitable position for a transfer orbit?
Every 25-26 months
What is the time window for spacecraft launch from Earth to Mars?
Around 2-3 weeks
Why is autonomous navigation needed for Mars orbit insertion and Entry-Descent-Landing on Mars?
Due to the distance between Mars and Earth causing a signal delay of 5-20 minutes
How long does it take for a spacecraft to complete half-a-transfer-orbit from Earth to Mars?
Around 260 days
Which factor influences fuel consumption in Mars missions?
Orbit diameter
What is the most fuel-efficient orbit to reach Mars according to the text?
One that reaches Mars on the farthest point from the Sun
What is the main purpose of spacecraft structure?
To carry loads and protect other spacecraft parts
Which type of materials are typically used for spacecraft structure?
Light-weight materials
What is the role of thermal control in a spacecraft?
To maintain specified temperature levels of spacecraft hardware
Which heat transport mechanisms are mentioned in the text?
Thermal conduction, thermal convection, thermal radiation
Why is it essential for thermal control to function throughout the spacecraft's life?
To maintain hardware temperatures in all situations
What type of testing is mentioned in relation to spacecraft structure?
Vibration testing
When did the scientists from CU/LASP and UCB/SSL propose the MAVEN mission to NASA?
2003
What was the cost limit per mission for proposals to NASA's 'Mars Scout Program'?
US $450 million
How many missions were proposed to NASA's program in 2007?
20
Which entity had a leading role in the Mars mission MAVEN according to the text?
CU/LASP
What happened to the 'Mars Scout Program' after being proposed by the MAVEN mission team?
It was integrated into NASA's 'Discovery Program'
How many finalists were selected from the 20 missions proposed to NASA's program in 2007?
2
What was the reason behind the postponement of launches for some Mars missions?
Delays due to launch windows from Earth to Mars
Why do space missions like those to Mars face complications or failures?
Obstacles during the journey
What is one of the key tasks of a project management team for space missions?
Cost management
Why are launch windows from Earth to Mars limited to specific time frames?
Due to alignment of Earth and Mars orbits
What was the main reason behind selecting the MAVEN mission for full development in 2008?
Lowest risk and best scientific value
Apart from delays, what other real-world problems can project management of space missions involve?
Reorganizations and obstacles
What method is primarily used for heat exchange between spacecraft and the space environment?
Radiation
In thermal control engineering, what temperature range is considered as conventional?
Between 120 K and 420 K
What is the purpose of cooling light sensors on spacecraft to cryogenic temperatures?
Reduce thermal noise
Why is compensating for temperature differences important in thermal control for spacecraft?
To reduce instrument mis-orientation
At what temperature range are high-temperature protection systems utilized in thermal control engineering?
Above 420 K
What is a common purpose of thermal radiators on spacecraft?
Radiate heat into space
Test your knowledge on optimizing Mars missions by understanding transfer orbits and launch windows. Learn how factors like orbit diameter and fuel consumption play a crucial role in space missions to Mars.
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