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NASA mission to Mars with MT-40 translation stage from PI miCos

NASA Curiosity rover

Photo NASA/JPL-Caltech

NASA mission to Mars with the PI miCos MT-40 CHEMCAM is one of the 2 french contributions to Mars Science laboratory (MSL) instruments suite. CHEMCAM instrument functionality rely on an autofocus capability to precisely focus on the chosen target (1-9m from rover). The autofocus function is performed by a mechanism that translates the secondary mirror, with high repeatability, over the 15mm stroke and in the full applicable range of temperatures.

MT-40 Space

Photo PI miCos GmbH

A ground COTS translation stage (MICOS MT-40) has been chosen and modified to meet mission requirements. This mechanism uses unusual components compared to what is chosen for high reliability space equipments in particular a screw/nut combination insuring the transmission function. It is designed to perform about 10.000 autofocus sequences during it’s lifetime.

Read more details in this publication.

 

 

 

 

 

Curiosity Heads to Mars
The Mars Science Laboratory spacecraft separates from the upper stage of its Atlas V launch vehicle and heads to Mars.

Where is Curiosity?
After its successful launch on Nov. 26, 2011, the Mars Science Laboratory Curiosity rover is in its Cruise Phase on its way to Mars! The trip from Earth to Mars will take about 36 weeks (254 days). Cruise ends when the spacecraft is 45 days from entry into the Martian atmosphere, when the Approach Phase begins. Follow Curiosity on her journey, through these simulated views, which are updated daily.

Photo NASA