Uploaded October 2013 | Updated September 2026, 53 minutes ago
This movie shows the deformations of a `disk-gap' parachute experiencing supersonic atmospheric entry on Mars. The isocontours on the cut plane through the fluid are coloured by velocity magnitude. The simulation reveals an unwanted buckling instability of the canopy that can be disastrous for the performance of such parachutes. The computation is representative of wind tunnel tests performed in support of NASA's Mars Science Laboratory parachute qualification program.
This movie shows the deformations of a `disk-gap' parachute experiencing supersonic atmospheric entry on Mars. The isocontours on the cut plane through the fluid are coloured by velocity magnitude. The simulation reveals an unwanted buckling instability of the canopy that can be disastrous for the performance of such parachutes. The computation is representative of wind tunnel tests performed in support of NASA's Mars Science Laboratory parachute qualification program.
