Space exploration exciting, Lunar Flashlight mission launched, green propellant issue, thruster problems, ice mapping.
The exciting days of space exploration continue with the launch of NASA’s Lunar Flashlight mission. On December 11th, the briefcase-sized spacecraft was launched aboard a special “rideshare” flight of SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket along with two other craft. The mission was to search for and quantify water ice deposits on the Moon, specifically in the permanently shadowed craters located in the the polar regions. To do this, the spacecraft was equipped with four lasers operating at different infrared wavelengths and a mirror to collect the reflected light.
Unfortunately, the mission has run into trouble with its cutting-edge “green” propellant system. Three out of the four thrusters on the spacecraft are under-performing, leading to the assumption that something is clogging the propellant lines. If the issue can’t be resolved soon, the mission could come to an end before it even had a chance to start.
The Lunar Flashlight mission is important for the future of space exploration. An accurate map of these ice deposits will influence the decision making process when it comes time to establish the location for humanity’s first lunar outpost. A local supply of ice means the facility could produce its own oxygen and rocket propellants, not to mention provide vital drinking water to astronauts.
The spacecraft is using a new “green” propellant known as AF-M315E, which is less toxic than the hydrazine traditionally used and more efficient. It offers 12% higher specific impulse (ISP) and is approximately 50% denser. The propulsion system utilizes 3D printing to produce a one-piece propellant manifold with integrated fluid channels, but this could be the source of the problem.
In early February the spacecraft will need to start making larger course corrections as it approaches the Moon, so ground controllers will get their opportunity to open up the throttle and hopefully clear up the blockage. We can only hope that the Lunar Flashlight mission can be saved and continue on its mission to map the water ice deposits on the Moon.
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