Huygens Decent Module and CD-ROM

Installation on the Huygens Descent Module of the CD-ROM containing more than 100000 signatures and messages from 'Earthlings' to be parachuted to the surface of Titan. Above can be seen the rear of the Front Shield and the complex mechanism that provides both fixation, and pyro-controlled separations, of the Probe from Cassini, of the Back Cover from the Front Shield and finally, of the Front Shield from the DM. Also visible on the DM are one (of two) transmitter antenna (black) and one (of three) parachute jettison (pyro) device that provides for change-over from the main parachute to the smaller stabiliser chute. Both parachutes are stored in the rectangular box by the technician's elbow. [Image Date: 01-03-97] [97.03.002-017]