October 14, 2014

Satellite

ESA assigned the prime contractorship of the satellite development to Astrium.

MEX_integration_1.jpg

Mars Express spacecraft during integration

The satellite main characteristics are the following:

Dimension1.5 x 1.8 x 1.4 m
Mass
dry
payload
Beagle 2
680 kg
116 kg
69 kg 
ergol428 kg 
Total1108 kg 
Solar generator surface11.42 m² (delivering at least 650 W)
Main thruster400 Newtons
Attitude thruster8 x 10 Newtons
Pointing accuracy0.15°