Nebula Public Library

The knowledge bank of ESA’s R&D programmes

Assessment of an Anchoring Device for CubeSat Landers

Programme
Discovery
Programme Reference
16/701
Start Date
End Date
Country
Romania
Description

The current study has evaluated the feasibility of a CubeSat anchoring device in the context of AIM mission. By enabling this capability on a Cubesat type nanosatellite, the overall AIM mission will be further augmented with in-situ scientific measurements such as close surface visual observations, on site plume ejecta monitoring, impact induced accelerations and seismic wave propagated through asteroid body, etc. Moreover, the anchoring device has a strong reuse potential in the context of SSA by the utilisation of Cubesats or small platforms for debris removal techniques.

Executive summary