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X-38 :
Phase 2
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Phase 2
The most important objective of this phase is to demonstrate deployment, autonomous
flight, and landing flare capability of a full-scale parafoil/payload system with a wing loading
of 2.0 pounds per square foot. Taking advantage of existing technology, the parachute and
guidance system will be the same system developed by Pioneer for the Army for use with airborne
military equipment deliveries. Originally, this phase was planned to use weighted pallet drops
and a full-scale, blended X-23/X-24A shape (without outboard fins) to accomplish its
objectives. Although the weighted pallet drops were generally successful, a failure of the
pallet release system resulted in the loss of the full-scale vehicle on its first drop. The
remaining objectives will be met by using low-cost mockups of the flight vehicle to demonstrate
parachute deployment and guidance systems. These mockups will be mounted on a pallet and extracted
from a C-130 launch aircraft with parachute deployment taking place shortly after extraction. After
parachute deployment, the parachute/guidance system will fly the mockup (and attached pallet) to a
flared, soft landing. Four mockup drops are planned to obtain parachute deployment and guidance
system performance data. All tests are to be accomplished at the Army test facility at Yuma, AZ.
Phase 2 Planned Objectives
Demonstrate deployment, autonomous flight, and landing flare capability of a parafoil/payload system with a wing loading of 2.0 pounds per square foot.
Make a preliminary evaluation of the touchdown dynamics of the full-scale vehicle/parachute combination.
Measure stability and control of the full-scale vehicle/parachute combination.
Demonstrate integration and operation (including guidance) of the Guided Precision Aerial Delivery System (GPADS) parachute recovery system. This system has been developed by Pioneer Corporation under
contract to the US. Army for use in the delivery of military equipment
to specific target areas.
Begin assessment of parachute system reliability.
Measure parafoil riser and ground impact loads for structural analysis.
Demonstrate composite structure integrity.
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Last Modified: February 13, 2001
Responsible NASA Official: Jenny Baer-Riedhart
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