Landing-shock-damping system for spacecraft

摘要

The system uses a cushion (13) which can be formed by combining two ingredients of reactive resin. The chemical reaction to form the cushion can be started on or shortly after re-entry, using the high temperatures then generated. The cushion can be formed by filling a sack (10), toroidal in shape when filled, with foam material. Alternatively, the heat-shield can be extended downwards from the cabin after re-entry by pneumatic rams, the intervening space being then filled with foam material.