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Science & Exploration

Huygens spacecraft

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ESA / Science & Exploration / Space Science / Cassini-Huygens

The Huygens probe measured 2.7 metres across and was built like a shellfish: a hard shell to protect a delicate interior from extreme temperatures experienced during the descent through the atmosphere.

It consisted of two parts: the Entry Assembly Module and the Descent Module.

Huygens Descent Module and shield
Huygens Descent Module and shield

The Entry Assembly Module carried the equipment to control Huygens after the separation from Cassini, and had a shield that acted as a brake and as thermal protection.

The Descent Module contained the scientific instruments. The probe used three different parachutes in sequence during the descent.

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