Engineering Papers⌕ Search

NASA NTRS · 20060042815

Mars Exploration Rover parachute system performance

Abstract

The Mars Exploration Rover (MER) program successfully landed two rovers, named 'Spirit' and 'Opportunity', on the surface of Mars in January 2004.

Explore related subjects

Keep this discovery

Explore connections, maps & timelines

BibTeXRIS

Witkowski, Allen, Kandis, Mike, Bruno, Robin, Cruz, Juan. 2005-05-01. Mars Exploration Rover parachute system performance. https://ntrs.nasa.gov/citations/20060042815

Cite the original work for its findings. Save a collection to share your selection of sources.

KEEP EXPLORING

Related reports

Orion Main Parachute Asymmetry Testing Revisited

Limited bridle-level asymmetry data were collected on three Orion main parachute cluster tests early in the development program. The results were published contemporaneously using analysis techniques developed by the Ares parachute program. Both programs seemed to indicate that large parachutes could develop line asymmetries far larger than what was assumed in design guides. Unfortunately, no additional asymmetry data were collected during Orion parachute development to corroborate these results. Recent high-fidelity data from Commercial Crew Program parachute system tests reinforce these legacy results. A method was developed to estimate suspension line-level asymmetry by “un-averaging” Orion bridle-level measurements using assumptions gleaned from the recent CCP experience. Efforts were made to improve the visualization of load asymmetry and its relationship with parachute geometric shape deformations.

parachutes↗

A Sample/Jitter Monte Carlo Technique for Main Parachute Loads Predictions

Models for Orion parachute performance are based on reconstructions of the Capsule Parachute Assembly System (CPAS) drop test campaign and were documented in the CPAS “Model Memo.” Experience with similar Commercial Crew Program (CCP) parachute systems resulted in some updates to the Orion models in preparation for Artemis missions. The reefing cutter dispersion model for the drogues and mains had been overly-conservative by producing wide timing differences within clusters. A higher-fidelity timing model was generated by separating out in-lot variation and temperature effects. The main parachute inflation model had accounted for some correlations between parameters using complicated 2-D geometric bounding, but the results tended to exaggerate individual peak loads from fast (leading) inflations and under-emphasize actual lagging experience. Several flight tests were reconstructed again with an emphasis on matching peak load magnitudes using a search algorithm. A simpler method for generating inflation parameters uses the 3-D correlated reconstructed “samples” with some random “jitter” applied. Dispersed Monte Carlo inputs are then checked against flight test data to evaluate whether they represent reality.

parachutes↗

Video Analysis for Surveillance of Spacecraft Parachute Systems

The Commercial Crew Program (CCP) has established a surveillance methodology to ensure the reliability of spacecraft parachute systems. The implemented methodology relies on an interconnected framework consisting of imagery analysis, hardware inspections, and vehicle data analysis. Imagery analysis serves as a foundation for these core activities which provide a robust approach to the surveillance of spacecraft parachute systems. As the surveillance framework has been developed, the role of imagery has become more prominent, and therefore imagery requirements have changed. To complete photogrammetric analysis, careful consideration must be made to the role of imagery, required data, imagery requirements, the analysis process, and mission planning. The role of imagery will drive the required data, which will in turn drive imagery requirements. Imagery requirements are likely to drive mission planning through consideration to camera selection and placement. If onboard imagery is required, the camera and data system must be implemented prior to launch. If external imagery is required, the photography package must be implemented such that it can be positioned for a return and free of potential debris fields. For these reasons, an integrated approach must be used to build an imagery package around the required analysis with careful coordination with mission planners.

parachutes↗