Designing the Mars Ascent Vehicle (MAV)

Collaboration with NASA

The Project

In the year 2030 NASA plans to send Astronauts to the Planet Mars and have them return safely back to Earth as part of the Evolvable Mars Campaign. The MAV will launch a Martian surface sample into Low Mars Orbit where the sample will await a ride home to Earth. The Mars ascent vehicle must be developed to survive a variety of conditions including the trans Mars journey, Martian entry descent and landing, and the harsh Martian surface environments while maintaining the ability to deliver its payload to Low Mars Orbit.

The Process

Working in collaboration with experienced Astronauts at NASA, our design team was tasked to research, predict and push the limits of a space craft that could meet the strict guidelines from NASA as well as consider the user experience on the MAV and on the surface of Mars.Define the smallest credible MAV cabin capable of supporting four 99th percentile male astronauts.

The Innovation

To reduce the dead space in the MAV, the exterior shape is asymmetrical and slants upwards in the front to allow the commander and pilot to reach the control panel that is located at the top. This configuration maximizes the volume of the form. Utilizing a composite material is a more efficient application for the form due to its organic shape. Most of the controls are located in the front of the MAV for the commander and pilot to easily access. Lighting are located around the top of the hatch to provide overhead lighting. Storage buckles secure stowage safely for take off and orbit.