Long-duration Venus lander for seismic and atmospheric science.

Area of Science:

• Planetary Science
• Venus Exploration
• Astrobiology

Background:

• Venus surface missions have been limited by extreme temperatures and short operational lifespans.
• Previous landers achieved significantly shorter surface durations than proposed for SAEVe.
• Understanding Venus's interior and atmosphere requires long-term surface observations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce the Seismic and Atmospheric Exploration of Venus (SAEVe) mission concept.
• To detail SAEVe's technological advancements enabling extended surface operations.
• To outline the scientific objectives, including seismicity and atmospheric studies.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing high-temperature electronics for extended surface survival.
• Developing a compact and lightweight lander system (approx. 45 kg, 0.6 m diameter).
• Leveraging ongoing technology development from NASA's LLISSE project and HOTTech program.

Main Results:

• SAEVe is projected to achieve 120 Earth days of surface operational life.
• The mission will enable the study of long-term phenomena like Venus seismicity and near-surface weather.
• SAEVe's design maximizes science return while minimizing size, mass, and energy usage.

Conclusions:

• SAEVe represents a significant advancement in Venus surface exploration capabilities.
• The mission serves as a crucial pathfinder for future, more sophisticated Venus landers.
• SAEVe is a cost-effective and complementary element for upcoming Venus orbiter missions.