Abstract

Two kinds of (re-)entry vehicles are studied and discussed from the point of view of flight physics: A balloon intended to be inserted in the atmosphere of Mars and the entry of solar kites either on Mars or Earth. By the nature of their design, both crafts have ballistic coefficients that are lower by several orders of magnitude compared to usual reentry bodies. This allows the deceleration in the higher, low density atmosphere, and thus lowers mechanical and thermal loads. The studies, although far from being finished, show the technical feasibility of this approach with respect to the two projects. Using the low ballistic coefficient reentry results in cheaper and less complex systems and is a noteworthy way to return (very) small payloads.

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