The NASA laboratory demonstrated the operation of the LOFTID moderator. Inflatable structure protected by flexible
The atmosphere of Mars is much less dense thanterrestrial, and poses a serious problem for aerodynamic braking, the scientists explain. When a spacecraft enters the atmosphere, aerodynamic forces act on it. Atmospheric drag helps slow the craft by converting its kinetic energy into heat. This is the most economical way to land.
Video: NASA Langley Research Center
In all previous missions to the red planetthe researchers used rigid heat shields. Their key disadvantage is the small diameter: it is limited by the size of the rocket casing. And for a mission involving people, a large amount of cargo will be required.
New technology, according to the creators,allows you to scale the "parachute" to the needs of the mission. A wide shell creates more resistance. As a result, the descent vehicle begins to slow down in the upper atmosphere at a higher altitude, while experiencing less intense heating.
Until the end of 2022, NASA plans to conductatmospheric testing of a new device in near-Earth orbit. The agency will launch LOFTID aboard the Atlas V United Launch Alliance along with a weather satellite. After the payload has been placed into orbit, the craft will be placed on a re-entry trajectory from low Earth orbit to demonstrate the inflatable aerodynamic envelope's ability to slow descent and withstand overheating.
Cover image: NASA
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