Conceptual Study of a Manned European Martian Rotorcraft for Passenger and Cargo Transport in Future Mars Missions

This work presents a space-oriented extension of an existing research program focused on developing innovative approaches and design solutions for rotorcraft. The study builds upon recent research conducted at the Military University of Technology, where new methods for main rotor optimization using parametric modeling were developed. The primary objective of this research is to investigate the feasibility of designing a rotorcraft capable of operating in the Martian environment. The proposed vehicle is intended to perform vertical takeoff, flight, and landing; sustain at least two hours of continuous operation; and transport a pilot with either a passenger or an equivalent payload of 100 kg. Additionally, the rotorcraft should be capable of being restored to an airworthy condition after each mission and prepared for reuse while maintaining its operational capabilities. Preliminary performance analyses were conducted based on Martian atmospheric conditions. Analytical models implemented in dedicated computational tools were used to estimate rotor dimensions, performance, and trim requirements. Several rotor configurations were evaluated to assess the feasibility of manned flight with an additional payload under extraterrestrial conditions. The results identify key limitations, risks, and technological challenges, while also highlighting potential design opportunities. The study culminates in a conceptual design proposal for a future Martian rotorcraft mission. The findings demonstrate the applicability of the proposed methodology and provide a foundation for further research and development in planetary rotorcraft systems.