Monday, August 11, 2025

Citroën Landing Mechanism

Citroën DS using its “suspension oléopneumatique” can drive on 3 wheels. A hydropneumatic system combines the advantages of hydraulic systems and pneumatic systems so that gas absorbs excessive force and liquid in hydraulics directly transfers force. The suspension system usually features both self-leveling and driver-variable ride height, to provide extra clearance in rough terrain. I propose this technology to be adapted on future celestial body landers.

All celestial lander’s descent stage has propellant tank pressurizers. Some of these pressurized gases can be used for the hydropneumatic suspension. Additionally, I propose the lander’s landing gears to be spikes like bald eagle talons. We name the lander as “Eagle”, but then we place foot pads instead of talons.

The mechanism will work as follows. As the lander approaches the surface, it will 3d scan the terrain to spot the high and low spots. Then, based on the surface heights each spike’s suspension will be adjusted. For the sections that require more travel, the suspension will be softer. As a result, the lander will be able to land on a slope. The high strength spikes will penetrate the ground like an eagle’s talon and stabilize the lander on the surface.

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