Precise guidance and landing strategy of space probe by using multiple markers in asteroid exploration mission

Abstract

This paper proposes a novel strategy for a space probe to descent and land on the asteroid surface with high accuracy of a few meters by utilizing several artificial markers deployed from the probe. Results of a numerical experiment indicated that the proposed method showed higher performance than conventional one. It will allow us to guide the probe with high mobility to the desired points such as small craters, which will be of great significance for understanding local geology and geography of the asteroid, or avoiding boulders and too rough regions.