Researchers from Stanford University have proposed a unique method to explore ultra-low gravity bodies in the solar system, and Mars' moon Phobos is the first target.
One of the burning questions in regard to Phobos (and its sister moon Deimos) is whether it is a captured asteroid or whether it was formed from Martian material ejected during a major collision.
The mission is comprised of a coffee-table sized orbiter / mothercraft which will carry around 6 small landers. These landers can be dropped on locations to be determined during the course of the mission which is destined to last as long as two years.
One of the problems with moving on the surface of a body as small as Phobos, which has an average diameter of 22.2km is that the force of gravity is only 0.0058m/s2 - this is a little more than one two thousandth of the gravity here on Earth. The end result is that there is insufficient friction to roll around on wheels. Another method is required.
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It is intended that the mothercraft will maintain all radio communication between the landers and earth. In addition, this vessel will release hedgehogs as required and also perform wide range analysis of Phobos; the hedgehogs will perform the detailed analysis of the moon's surface.
It is intended to position the mothercraft at the zero gravity point between Mars and Phobos, such that it will not have to orbit the moon to remain stable.
A prototype hedgehog has already been built and will be suspended from a crane to test it's movement abilities in a simulated low-gravity environment. The researchers also speak of buying time on the "vomit comet" to conduct further tests.
The project, although initiated as part of the NASA Innovative Advanced Concepts Program, has not yet been officially sanctioned by NASA, suggesting it won't be launched for at least ten years (if it gets a go-ahead).
