Studies indicate that paragliders may provide lightweight, controllable re-entry vehicles suitable for spacecraft recovery. During entry, the light wing loadings available with this concept result in peak radiation-equilibrium temperatures below the temperature limits of existing materials, thus eliminating the need for heavy ablative heat protection systems. After atmospheric re-entry, this concept provides controlled glide to a preselected landing site, and the capability of landing with very low touchdown velocities.Aerodynamic analysis of the parawing reveals lift/drag penalties due to poor wing-twist and camber distributions. A subsonic wing improvement program is described and significant improvements in lift/drag are illustrated.


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    Title :

    Concept and Aerodynamic Improvement of Paragliders for Spacecraft Recovery


    Additional title:

    Sae Technical Papers


    Contributors:
    Cota, G. R. (author)

    Conference:

    Pre-1964 SAE Technical Papers ; 1906



    Publication date :

    1962-01-01




    Type of media :

    Conference paper


    Type of material :

    Print


    Language :

    English





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