DRAG FLAPs (Deployable Rigid Adjustable Guided Final Landing Approach Pinions)

Developed by Masten Space Systems Inc.

Balloon launched on 8/3/2016, from Madras Municipal Airport, Oregon, US

Purpose of the flight and payload description

This was the first test flight of the Deployable Rigid Adjustable Guided Final Landing Approach Pinions (DRAG FLAPs) being developed by Masten Space Systems for use with Masten's VTVL reusable launch vehicles.

DRAG FLAPs are deployable, controllable, rigid decelerators, specifically designed for use during descent and landing of an entry, descent, and landing (EDL) trajectory to augment the aerodynamic characteristics of a vehicle. Employing such devices provides aerodynamic stabilization and control, expands the descent time frame to accomplish critical events, improves precision landing, and increases the payload mass to surface.

Details of the balloon flight

Balloon launched on: 8/3/2016
Launch site: Madras Municipal Airport, Oregon, US  
Balloon launched by: Near Space Corporation (NSC)
Balloon manufacturer/size/composition: Zero Pressure Balloon  
Flight identification number: SBS-10
End of flight (L for landing time, W for last contact, otherwise termination time): 8/3/2016

External references

Images of the mission

         

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