On August 28, Beijing time, reports from foreign media reveal that Venus is often called the "hell of the solar system" due to its extreme conditions: crushing atmospheric pressure, violent winds, and thick clouds of sulfuric acid. These harsh environments have historically limited the lifespan of probes sent to Venus to just a few hours. However, NASA is now planning an innovative approach with a new type of detector designed to explore the planet for longer periods.
The proposed rover, named “Zephyr,†aims to use the planet’s own wind currents to move across the surface, significantly reducing energy consumption. Designed by Geoffrey Landis of NASA’s Glenn Research Center, this concept was presented as part of NASA's Advanced Innovative Concept (NIAC) program. The rover is engineered to withstand temperatures up to 450°C and operate without a traditional power source.
Standing about 7 meters tall, the three-wheeled Zephyr will primarily remain stationary during investigations but can travel short distances when needed. Its design allows for forward and backward movement, which could help it escape difficult terrain. The vehicle would rely on a sail-like system, using only two movable joints to control direction and harness the weak but steady winds of Venus—less than 2 miles per hour, yet sufficient for movement.
Venus, often referred to as Earth’s “twin,†shares similarities in size, mass, and composition. However, its environment is far more hostile. The atmosphere is dominated by carbon dioxide, with surface pressure over 90 times that of Earth. Sulfuric acid clouds blanket the planet, and surface temperatures are hot enough to melt lead.
Dr. Landis emphasized that exploring Venus is more challenging than Mars, noting that current technology struggles to survive even a few hours on the planet. He suggested that future missions should focus on using local resources and developing components capable of withstanding extreme heat.
The team at NASA’s Glenn Research Center has already tested electronic components in high-temperature environments, such as inside a running engine. This experience gives them confidence that the Zephyr could function effectively on Venus.
If successful, the rover could potentially operate for a month, making short daily “sailing trips†while conducting scientific research. Although it won’t be fast, its ability to move and adapt makes it a promising tool for studying one of the most extreme worlds in our solar system.
Pp Plastic Plywood,Pp Plastic Sheets,Moisture-Resistant Plywood,Versatile Construction Plywood
RILICO , https://www.rilico.com