Specifics of designing trajectories of perspective spacecraft for Venus exploration

Abstract

The paper describes the mission profile of the perspective Venus exploration project spacecraft with launches planned for 2027−2031. The main aspects of selecting the optimal launch dates are considered. The sequences of an orbiter injection to a highly elliptical orbit and a lander delivery to the surface of Venus are described. The rationale for the operating orbit as well as for the injection sequence that will enable Venus-to-Earth data transfer are provided. The lifespan of the lander, including its parachute descent, is limited by the high temperature of the lower atmosphere close to the surface (up to 460 degrees Celsius) and is expected to be no more than three hours. Therefore, a key feature of the mission profile development is designing the sequence of the orbital vehicle maneuvers, which ensures robust communication with the lander during this time within a range of 40 thousand kilometers.