Hypersonic Inflatable Aerodynamic Decelerators: Introduction

Decreasing the ballistic coefficient (by increasing the diameter) is a key route to enabling high velocity, high mass atmospheric entries. It could also potentially unlock greater booster stage reusability. Spacecraft diameter is typically limited by the width of the rocket payload fairing, however the use of expandable aerodynamic decelerators (including inflatable and mechanically expandable designs) is an emerging technology in aerospace that is beginning to see its first successful test deployments. This premium article covers the key technical and material aspects of expandable aerodynamic decelerators.