The Fobos-Grunt spacecraft, developed by Russia’s space agency Roscosmos, was an ambitious mission designed to study the Martian moon Phobos. Its primary objective was to collect surface samples from Phobos and return them to Earth for analysis, with secondary objectives including studying Mars‘s atmosphere and conducting scientific experiments en route to the moon.
Design and Construction
Fobos-Grunt featured a complex design, comprising a propulsion module, Earth return vehicle, and a lander intended for Phobos’s surface. Constructed from durable materials to withstand the harsh conditions of space, the spacecraft faced unique engineering challenges, including developing a reliable sample collection mechanism and ensuring the lander’s safe touchdown on Phobos’s surface.
Mission Objectives
The primary mission objective of Fobos-Grunt was to collect regolith samples from the Martian moon Phobos and return them to Earth for analysis. Secondary objectives included studying Mars’s atmosphere during the spacecraft’s journey to Phobos and conducting scientific experiments to enhance our understanding of the Martian system.
Launch and Deployment
Fobos-Grunt was launched aboard a Zenit-2 rocket from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in November 2011. However, shortly after launch, the spacecraft encountered a propulsion failure, preventing it from leaving Earth’s orbit and fulfilling its mission objectives. Efforts to salvage the mission were unsuccessful, and Fobos-Grunt remained stranded in orbit until re-entering Earth’s atmosphere in January 2012.
Technical Specifications
- Dimensions: Approximately 3.9 meters in length, 1.1 meters in diameter
- Weight: Approximately 13.5 metric tons
- Propulsion System: Utilized a high-thrust main engine and smaller thrusters for maneuvering
- Power Source: Solar panels provided electrical power during the mission
- Instruments and Equipment: Included a soil sample collection system, scientific instruments for analyzing Phobos’s surface, and instruments for studying Mars’s atmosphere.
Current Status
As of 2024, Fobos-Grunt is considered a failed mission, as it was unable to fulfill its primary objectives due to a propulsion failure shortly after launch. The spacecraft remains stranded in low Earth orbit, serving as a reminder of the challenges and risks associated with interplanetary missions.
