Simulating the untestable when searching for life on Mars

The search for life on Mars is a monumental effort requiring the highest level of engineering innovation. The first challenge of safely landing the Perseverance Rover on the surface of Mars was a massive success. Now the work begins to understand Mars and to search for evidence of life by collecting samples for return to Earth by a future mission. But how can we be sure that there is no earth-borne contamination in those samples?

One specific part of this grand challenge the mission was faced with was how to protect the sample tubes from flow-driven particle contamination throughout the trip to Mars including entry, descent, and landing (EDL).

The solution proposed and ultimately selected was the Fluid Mechanical Particle Barrier (FMPB) for the prevention of sample contamination on the Mars 2020 mission.

Simulation technologies

Join our discussion on engineering challenges that were addressed leveraging cutting-edge simulation technologies, and learn about:

• Multi-physics modeling of complex environments
• Technologies evaluated for contamination mitigation
• FMPB design and analysis
• Use of simulation when testing is not possible

Interested in knowing about the role of multi-physics simulation in search for life on Mars?

This webinar is perfect for engineers, designers, and engineering leadership who are interested in knowing more about multi-physics approaches and results related to space exploration engineering challenges.