Conceptual Design and Material Assessment of a Minimal Lunar Orbiter Structure Prototype
Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1
Faculty of Mechanical and Energy Engineering-Shahid Beheshti University
2
Faculty of Mechanical and Energy Engineering, Shahid Beheshti University
Abstract
This paper aims to enhance design knowledge in the field of space technologies by elaborating on the conceptual design process of a lunar orbiter structure. Initially, the technical requirements and subsystem interfaces of the structure with other subsystems have been examined. Subsequently, leveraging statistical analyses and studying similar projects and existing models, several material options for the lunar orbiter structure have been proposed. To evaluate these options, modal analyses and mass calculations have been conducted using finite element modeling, and the results have been compared with the material production capabilities within the country to determine the final structural material. Furthermore, the conceptual design process, including component layout and calculations related to mass properties, has been performed. The outputs of this stage include the initial structural layout, mass budget, and preliminary mass calculations of the lunar orbiter. This research, as the first national step in lunar orbiter design, provides a valuable contribution to the analysis, design, and localization of space probes and represents a significant milestone in advancing indigenous space technologies.
Keywords
Subjects
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Volume 5, Issue 1 - Serial Number 9
September 2025Pages 172-187
- Receive Date 28 January 2025
- Revise Date 05 March 2025
- Accept Date 03 May 2025