Cassini - Huygens

Kevster

The success of this mission was (and still is) tremendous, despite the loss of data they suffered as the probe was sent through Titan's atmosphere. However, why didn't they build a rover that could explore the surface? Why didn't they have a spectromoter / chromatographer on-board that could detect the composition of the surface rock/soil?

...I'm just really puzzled as to why they simply let it fall through the atmosphere, land on the ground, take a picture, and then die in under an hour. THis was a great opportunity that will now have to be repeated.

I think they're all hinting at Europa before a re-visit to Titan, however.

MooseJam

But weren't we barred from visiting Europa

Evil Phil

I am under the impression that they had limited space for Huygens, combine that with the extreme conditions on Titan and I think you have your answer (but I could be wrong). I think what your suggesting would require I dedicated 'Titan Only' mission? It would be cool though.

Why aren't we allowed visit Europa?

MooseJam

"ALL THESE WORLDS ARE YOURS EXCEPT EUROPA. ATTEMPT NO LANDINGS THERE."

I guess you aren't a fan of the 2001 A Space Odyssey series

Evil Phil

Guess not