Development Trend Analysis of Solar System Explorationand the Scientific Vision for Future Missions

Abstract

This paper summarizes the history of solar system exploration and the major scientific achievements.We can find out significant trends for future solar system exploration.Firstly,from the Moon to the Mars is theMain line for future solar system exploration.China has carried out three lunar missions.The next objective bodyWill focus on the Mars.Secondly,the general survey of the solar system is not popular as be fore.Future solarSystem exploration will focus on some high interested asteroids,planet sand their moons.Thirdly,the solar systemExploration in the last century was focused on technology realization,while that in the new century will be driven byscience.Fourthly,we must face the technology difficulties,shortage of professionals,and unaffordable budgets in The solar system missions These problems are difficult for any country to solve by itself.Therefore,international Cooperation is necessary and needed.This paper also analyzes the three major science themes of the solar system exploration:the origin and evolution of the solar system and planets,and the search for extraterrestrial life and Habitable environment,guard against the catastrophic events of the strong solar activity and asteroid impact on the Earth.With the progress of China’s Lunar Exploration Program,China should carry out its Mars mission as soon as possible.After that,China will promote its missions to the asteroids,Sun,Venus,Jupiter system,and otherbodies.

Keywords

solar system exploration / development trend / science theme