Project Lyra: Sending a Spacecraft to 1I/'Oumuamua (former A/2017 U1), the Interstellar Asteroid

TL;DR

This paper analyzes feasible near-term mission designs to intercept the interstellar object 1I/'Oumuamua, considering high-velocity trajectories, propulsion options, and technological constraints to enable direct study of material from other star systems.

Contribution

It presents a high-level analysis of potential mission architectures and propulsion technologies capable of reaching 1I/'Oumuamua within 5-10 years using current or near-term technology.

Findings

A Falcon Heavy-class launcher could send a spacecraft to 1I/'Oumuamua if launched in 2021.

A Saturn flyby could enable a spacecraft comparable to New Horizons to reach the object.

Deceleration at 'Oumuamua is highly desirable for maximizing scientific return.

Abstract

The first definitely interstellar object 1I/'Oumuamua (previously A/2017 U1) observed in our solar system provides the opportunity to directly study material from other star systems. Can such objects be intercepted? The challenge of reaching the object within a reasonable timeframe is formidable due to its high heliocentric hyperbolic excess velocity of about 26 km/s; much faster than any vehicle yet launched. This paper presents a high-level analysis of potential near-term options for a mission to 1I/'Oumuamua and potential similar objects. Launching a spacecraft to 1I/'Oumuamua in a reasonable timeframe of 5-10 years requires a hyperbolic solar system excess velocity between 33 to 76 km/s for mission durations between 30 to 5 years. Different mission durations and their velocity requirements are explored with respect to the launch date, assuming direct impulsive transfer to the intercept trajectory. For missions using a powered Jupiter flyby combined with a solar Oberth maneuver using solid rocket boosters and Parker Solar Probe heat shield technology, a Falcon Heavy-class launcher would be able to launch a spacecraft of dozens of kilograms towards 1I/'Oumuamua, if launched in 2021. An additional Saturn flyby would allow for the launch of a New Horizons-class spacecraft. Further technology options are outlined, ranging from electric propulsion, and more advanced options such as laser electric propulsion, and solar and laser sails. To maximize science return decelerating the spacecraft at 'Oumuamua is highly desirable, due to the minimal science return from a hyper-velocity encounter. Electric and magnetic sails could be used for this purpose. It is concluded that although reaching the object is challenging, there seem to be feasible options based on current and near-term technology.