European Space Agency (THIS) conducted a successful test of a state-of-the-art parachute system, designed for landing on Mars as part of the ExoMars mission. The test became a key stage of preparation for the delivery of the Rosalind Franklin rover to the surface of the Red Planet. The tests were carried out at height 29 km above the Swedish Arctic Circle with the help of helium balloon, Running from the Esrange Space Center. The test conditions simulated the thin Martian atmosphere, recreating the rate of descent and low air density.
ExoMars parachute system, which includes the largest parachute, ever tested for extraterrestrial use, successfully slowed down a copy of the lander. During the test, the module was in free fall throughout 20 seconds, after which two parachutes opened successively. First, diameter 15 city, designed for braking at supersonic speeds, And the second, diameter 35 city, provides final reduction. This is a two-stage system, supplemented with a heat shield and retro rockets, which are activated before touching the surface, allows the module to slow down from 21 000 km/h to a safe landing in six minutes.
This parachute system was first validated for Martian conditions in 2021 year, but due to geopolitical delays, in particular, Russia's exit from the ExoMars program in 2022 year, parachutes were stored for several years. Test 2025 of the year confirmed their reliability after long storage and readiness for the mission. The test on Earth allowed to collect detailed telemetry, high-speed video footage and inspect the parachutes after landing, which is impossible during a real Martian mission.
ExoMars mission, scheduled for 2028 year, involves the delivery of the Rosalind Franklin rover to search for signs of past life on Mars. The successful test of parachutes brings Europe closer to realizing this ambitious goal, demonstrating its technological capabilities and cooperation between the countries of the continent.
Source: https://www.spacedaily.com