We propose to develop an on-board guidance algorithm and implement it as real-time software to compute fuel optimal trajectories for the large divert landing maneuvers that are necessary to achieve planetary pinpoint landing. The on-board algorithm will be customized in order to autonomously compute a fuel optimal trajectory in a fraction of a second by using the on-board computer. The ground version of the algorithm is currently at TRL-3. This task will develop the on-board algorithm and software and test it on a flight computer, which will bring the readiness level to TRL-5.
More »