On 11/18/12 1:10 AM, Robert Berger wrote:
An interesting idea. A round "canopy" chute like we've used in the past can only change the descent rate, but a parafoil chute behaves like a glider and could steer the payload during descent. http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parafoil
Yup. We've talked about that kind thing virtually since the first launch (or maybe it was the first launch prep, I've lost track).
Sounds like a great secondary project to pursue, as is the catch the payload with a UAV Quadcopter swarm! Ohly, maybe, the steerable parafoil might be easier to get working as it's slightly more proven tech...
-=D