Design Methodology and Preliminary Sizing of An Unmanned Mars Exploration Plane (UMEP)

This paper discusses the mission requirements and design constraints for an Unmanned Martian research aircraft based on a tailor-made classical airplane design methodology. First, the exploration mission is described using the information from previous real-world experiences and the desired payload is proposed accordingly. The environmental conditions that dictate severe constraints to the design space are characterized afterwards. The conventional airplane design cycle is modified to address the lack of statistical data and to define a proper design recycling criteria. Eventually, the outcome is presented in the form of a novel configuration that is well suited to carry out the specified exploration mission, flying low and slow over the Martian surface.