Context:
Recently, NASA confirmed a Dragonfly rotorcraft mission to Saturn’s organic compound-rich moon Titan with a budget of $3.35 billion and a launch date set for July 2028.
Relevance:
Facts for Prelims
Dimensions of the Article:
- About Dragonfly Mission
- Key Facts about Titan
About Dragonfly Mission
Description:
- Dragonfly is a “dual quadcopter” designed for exploration across the surface of Titan, Saturn’s largest moon.
- It is equipped to investigate various locations on Titan, conducting extensive science measurements primarily from the moon’s surface.
Power System:
- The mission will utilize a radioisotope power system, similar to the one used by the Curiosity rover on Mars.
Operational Schedule:
- Most of Dragonfly’s flights, data transmissions, and scientific operations are planned to occur during Titan’s day.
- The craft will have ample time to recharge during Titan’s night.
Objective:
- Scheduled to arrive at Titan in 2034, Dragonfly aims to explore dozens of promising locations on the moon.
- The mission seeks to identify prebiotic chemical processes that are common on both Titan and early Earth, before the development of life.
Historical Note:
- Dragonfly represents a groundbreaking achievement as it marks the first instance of NASA flying a vehicle for scientific exploration on another planetary body.
- With its eight rotors, the rotorcraft operates similarly to a large drone.
Key Facts about Titan
- Location and Size:
- Titan is the largest moon of Saturn.
- Atmosphere:
- It is the only moon known to have a thick atmosphere.
- Surface Features:
- Titan boasts an Earth-like cycle of liquids flowing across its surface, adding to its scientific intrigue.
-Source: The Hindu
