Current models are unable to accurately predict the environment that a spacecraft is exposed to during a powered descent landing event. The effects of plume/surface interactions become more severe as landed mass increases. Validated predictive modeling capabilities will be required to land larger payloads (>M2020 mass, i.e., human-class) NASA missions. This work involves a direct comparison between numerical and experimental results to quantitatively determine accuracy of physical models used in simulations of spacecraft landing on a body using powered descent, such a the Moon, Mars, or other solar system bodies. Current existing modeling tools show qualitative agreement, but InSight predictions did not match observed cratering. There is a need for validated modeling tools for future, larger landed missions. This work leverages state-of-the-art academic codes by partnering with the University of Michigan.
More »