Earth And Space Science Project Abstract

PROJECT ICARUS: DESIGNING A PLANE THAT CAN FLY ON MARS

Presenters:

Jawwad Akhtar, Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy, 1500 West Sullivan Road, Aurora, IL, 60506; joehbkdx@imsa.edu

David Liu, Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy, 1500 West Sullivan Road, 885, Aurora, IL, 60506; lameking@imsa.edu

Adam Sadorus, Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy, 1500 West Sullivan Road, Aurora, IL, 60506; elcign@imsa.edu

Advisor:

Mr. Branson Lawrence, Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy, 1500 Sullivan Road, Physics, Aurora, IL, 60506; 630-907-5047; branson@imsa.edu

Abstract:

Through Project Icarus, we sought to design an aircraft that was capable of flying on Mars. During our inquiry, our team designed a fuselage, wings, engines, and control surfaces – all necessary to test our aircraft’s capability of simulated Martian flight. For the fuselage, we chose a very cylindrical design with the front-end coming to a smooth tip. Compared to the fuselage, our wings are much longer than they would be on an Earth plane. Their main purpose is to garner a large amount of lift without as much drag. Finally, we decided on dual engines in the back of the fuselage. Our plane doesn’t rely on large quantities of fuel like many Earth planes do; instead, a thrust-and-glide procedure is optimal. By using a computer flight simulation program, we extensively tested our designs and determined that it would indeed be successful if it actually did fly on Mars. We did have several problems during the design phase, including how to turn properly and safely land. During Presentation Day, we will display clips of our plane in action and provide a basic overview of the challenges that presented themselves.