The MoonTWINS mission and the IMOD prototype
SENER maintains a consolidated presence in the field of mechanisms and structures for Space, which has recently been strengthened thanks to its participation in two very different studies: the MoonTWINS mission and the IMOD prototype.
In the MoonTWINS mission, SENER is working on defining the mechanisms of two similar vehicles to be left at the poles of the moon. Once they are put into lunar orbit together and before they land, the two vehicles will carry out a demonstration rendezvous in orbit. In this way the undercarriage of both must be designed to allow this manoeuvre to be carried out gently as well as absorbing the energy generated on landing.
At the same time, SENER is designing and manufacturing the metal support structure for a prototype inflatable module (IMOD), final testing of which has been scheduled for late 2007. This technology is interesting in that it may allow the creation of reasonable spacious inhabitable volumes for long-term stays in space, which may also be put into orbit using conventional launchers.
