Izvestia reports Russia developing high-precision 3D models of the Moon and Mars

At the conference in Moscow, Russian scientists introduced a project to create high-precision 3D models of the Moon and Mars, newspaper Izvestia (News) reports.

The newspaper informs that the project will allow to obtain 3D models of the Moon and Mars with the best performance, which will help to develop the relevant competences for the exploration of other planets. The development of 3D models involves the creation of special equipment that will work properly during deep-space flights.

“Preparation for flights such as to the Moon is a comprehensive procedure. It includes many aspects from designing satellites to providing the vehicles with communications, control systems and onboard instrumentation. The important stage is to create equipment that will work reliably for a long time in extreme temperatures and radiation outside the Earth's magnetic field,” the newspaper cited Alexey Semenov, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Geoscan Group of Companies, who is also one of the initiators of the project. He pointed out that it would take at least one and a half years to build satellites.

It is assumed that small spacecrafts will be able to reach the Earth's satellite on their own. To do so, they must launch from low-Earth orbit. While to get to Mars, a cargo spacecraft will be needed.