DEFINITION:

A comprehensive understanding of component-, subsystem-, and system-level performance is inherent to all successful entry vehicle systems. Systems technology capabilities perform a key role for identifying, characterizing, and maturing system-level integration and design. Vehicle systems technologies will thus be segmented into six areas that have implications across the entire EDL architecture.

(Source: NASA TA9.4 except TA9.4.7 GNC Sensors and Systems included into 1-G-1)

SUBDOMAINS:

1. Architecture Analyses: In this roadmap document, architecture analyses are not considered a technology unique to EDL. Computational advances from the whole 1-G area will be utilized as appropriate to enable architecture analyses for future missions.
2. Separation Systems: For the purposes of this roadmap document, transition and separation systems are considered to be an engineering design problem, not thought at this time to require new technology.
3. System Integration and Analysis: EDL vehicle implementation requires integration of multiple unique subsystems into a system-level capability. System integration and analysis picks up where architecture analysis ends by accomplishing subsystem-level design and performing subsystem-level design trades based on detailed engineering assessments. Moderate levels of engineering fidelity should be expected that rely on validated engineering approximations or engineering design capabilities.
4. Atmosphere and Surface Characterization: Atmospheric modeling is important to all aerodynamic phases of flight, including aero-capture, aero-braking, entry, and descent. Precise landings require guided vehicles to navigate through variations in atmospheric density and winds. Controlled terminal descent and landing requires an accurate knowledge of the surface characteristics. Instrument-focused technologies needed to fill this strategic knowledge gap for sending humans to Mars can be found in 1-I.
5. Modeling and Simulation: Improved multi-disciplinary simulations that can capture the complex flows of larger, heavier vehicles are needed to enable risk quantification and design decision-making. EDL systems are reliant on robust and efficient modeling and simulation capability because it is generally not possible to adequately test all aspects of an EDL system in a truly relevant environment prior to use. Simulation capability is thus on the critical path of defining system design, margins, and reliability.
6. Instrumentation and Health Monitoring: EDL instrumentation for both engineering data and vehicle health monitoring provides a critical link between predicted and observed performance of the AAE system; it is crucial for improving the design of current systems and for ensuring sufficient system reliability prior to deployment or use. EDL instrumentation provides the final validation for modeling and simulation capabilities, which drives down uncertainties and improves overall prediction reliability for future missions.