ExoMars parachute extraction

The first main parachute provided by Airborne Systems for the ExoMars 2022 mission during a dynamic extraction test using NASA/JPL’s test rig powered by compressed air. The lid of the parachute assembly is pulled along a suspended cable at high speed while the end of the assembly is fixed to a wall. When the release mechanism is activated, the parachute bag is pulled away from the parachute at the target speed, mimicking the extraction as it will be on Mars.

In the first image the parachute bag is clearly seen with the lines extruding. The second image captured seconds later shows the parachute after it has been extracted, with the empty bag to the left of the scene. The disc-gap band design of the parachute is clearly identifiable.

The tests took place in April 2021.