Throttling, Descent and Landing of a Projectile Using Spin-Stabilization and Torque-Free Precession

Case ID:
UA19-072
Invention:

This invention is a method for landing a projectile using solid rockets for a soft-landing onto the bottom surface of pits on the Moon or other difficult surfaces. The method also includes spin stabilization to ensure the projectile stays oriented for a secure landing. The invention is intended to be used by rovers on the Moon and Mars for discovering the insides of deep pits that are unable to be viewed.
 

Background:
Currently, rovers that are sent to the Moon and Mars are unable to explore the depths of pits which may contain forms of past life or water. Wheeled rovers, that are very expensive, would not be able to come back to the surface or make a safe landing, and thus need a low-cost alternative to explore these pits.

 

Applications:

  • Mars and Moon pit exploration
  • Military recon
  • Toy rockets and drones


Advantages:

  • Inexpensive
  • Low weight
  • Disposable
Patent Information:
Contact For More Information:
Scott Zentack
Licensing Manager, College of Engr
The University of Arizona
zentack@arizona.edu
Lead Inventor(s):
Jekan Thangavelautham
Steven Morad
Leonard Vance
Thomas Dailey
Keywords: