![](\"http:\/\/www.esa.int\/var\/esa\/storage\/images\/esa_multimedia\/images\/2017\/06\/3d_printed_planetary_models\/17043117-1-eng-GB\/3D_printed_planetary_models_small.jpg\")
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\n3D-printed scale models of asteroids and other planetary bodies are used for real-life testing of spacecraft navigation and landing systems \u2013 martian moon Phobos seen in the foreground here.\n<\/p>\n
\n\u201cThe models<\/a> are based on accurate digital elevation model data gathered from past space missions,\u201d explains Olivier Dubois-Matra of ESA\u2019s Guidance, Navigation and Control Section<\/a>.\n<\/p>\n \n\u201cWe then add colour and surface finishing. Asteroids and comets do tend to be very dark \u2013 the images usually seen have been lightened and enhanced to reveal detail.\u201d\n<\/p>\n \nMobile cameras manoeuvre around a model<\/a> \u2013 to give the equivalent of a spacecraft\u2019s eye-view \u2013 enabling the real-world testing of guidance and landing software and systems, which are often based on the mapping of surface features.\n<\/p>\n \nSuch physical testing can be carried out in parallel to virtual testing, such as that carried out using the dedicated \u2018Planetary and Asteroid Natural scene Generation Utility\u2019 or Pangu software.\n<\/p>\n \nTomorrow, 30 June, is international Asteroid Day<\/a>, spreading the word on the tiny bodies that Earth shares space with, as both a scientific resource and a potential danger.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" \n3D-printed scale models of asteroids and other planetary bodies are used for real-life testing of spacecraft navigation and landing systems – martian moon Phobos seen in the foreground here.\n<\/p>\n \n“The models<\/a> are based on accurate digital elevation model data gathered from past space missions,” explains Olivier Dubois-Matra of ESA’s Guidance, Navigation and Control Section<\/a>.\n<\/p>\n \n“We then add colour and surface finishing. Asteroids and comets do tend to be very dark – the images usually seen have been lightened and enhanced to reveal detail.”\n<\/p>\n<\/p>\n