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Vryghem_61591500_2023.pdf
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- The exploration of the interior, and thus the origin of the planets and moons has always been of major scientific interest because of its intimate link to our own existence. This master thesis takes place in the continuation of the LaRa (Lander Radio science) project which aims at collecting informations on the rotation and the orientation of Mars using radiosciences. In that context, this work serves as a building block for the study of the interior properties of Triton, the biggest moon of Neptune. Among the numerous moons of the solar system, Triton is particularly interesting for several reasons. First, it may host an internal ocean and consequently be a potential source of life. Second, Triton is the only moon of the solar system orbiting in a retrograde direction. Given the large distance between Triton and the Earth, the most realistic scenario consists of using an orbiter around Neptune which serves as a relay between a lander on Triton and the Earth. This master thesis focuses on the design of the antenna to be mounted on the Triton lander. First, based on the Esa Ice Giants study report, informations about the orbiter, the space environment, the lander payload, etc. have been collected. Second, an analysis of two potential orbits, namely the equatorial orbit and the polar orbit, has been carried out. This study serves also as a basis for the link budget analysis. Relying on the link budget and on the required Signal to Noise Ratio (SNR), the antennas specifications are derived. Third, two antenna arrays are proposed, one for each orbit. The antennas are built of metal only so as to withstand to the harsh environment of Triton. Finally, the impact of the designed antenna on the link budget is closely analyzed, showing that a good communication can be established during almost the entire orbit.