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Controlled descend of ORION module to the surface of Mars

Challenge: Planetary Lander Video Game

Team: Mars Landers

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Team

Stefan Stavrev,

Bulgaria,

PhD candidate,

Plovdiv University “Paisii Hilendarski”

Dimitar Ginchev,

Bulgaria,

Assist. Professor,

Technical University Sofia

Simona Lilova,

Bulgaria,

Student,

Technical University Sofia

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A STEM – based video game

  • The player takes control of the command module ORION – replacement of the Apollo
  • The player tries to keep the module steady, as it approaches the Mars surface
  • Along the descend, various facts about Mars pop-up to educate the player
  • The player has to keep track of 2 instruments: spaceball and speedometer, in order to successfully control the spacecraft thrusters and correct its orientation and speed.

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Why ORION

  • Apollo – old system (70’s)
  • Proven but morally old
  • Orion – current crew module for missions by NASA
  • ORION – 4 crew members vs 3 of Apollo
  • ORION relies on solar energy, rather then fuel cells 🡪 longer missions

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In-game images

Added support for H.O.T.A.S.�(Desktop version only)

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Resources

  • We used several open-source resources:
    • Unreal Engine 4
    • GIS model of Mars surface
    • Free 3D model of the ORION spacecraft
    • Information about NASA’s plan of manned mission to Mars
    • General facts about Mars - atmosphere and soil composition, winds, pressure, etc.