Dandelion-Inspired and Wind Powered Flying Sensors Suite for the Exploration of Martian Lava Tubes and the Martian Surface

The paper aims to describe the design and prototype of a modular, ultralight weight, batteryless sensor system as a proof of concept for the dandelion-drone mission. The typical weight and power consumption for common sensor types were characterized and implemented on the prototype sensor modules. Prototypes of a solar array mounted to the head of the dandelion have also been analyzed to develop optimal geometry for wind powered flight.