Huygens spacecraft


Cassini - Huygens preparation : descent module
 
 
 
The Huygens probe measures 2.7 metres across and is built like a shellfish: a hard shell to protect a delicate interior from extreme temperatures experienced during the descent through the atmosphere.
 
It consists 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 carries the equipment to control Huygens after the separation from Cassini, and has a shield that will act as a brake and as thermal protection.

The Descent Module contains the scientific instruments. The probe will use three different parachutes in sequence during the descent.
  
 
  
Last update: 19 January 2005

 •  At Saturn and Titan (http://www.esa.int/SPECIALS/Cassini-Huygens/index.html)

More about...

 •  More on Cassini-Huygens spacecraft (http://sci.esa.int/science-e/www/object/index.cfm?fobjectid=35026)
 •  More on Huygens instruments (http://sci.esa.int/science-e/www/object/index.cfm?fobjectid=31193 &fbodylongid=1604)

Related articles

 •  Life on Titan? (http://www.esa.int/SPECIALS/Cassini-Huygens/SEM696HHZTD_0.html)
 •  Christiaan Huygens: Discoverer of Titan (http://www.esa.int/esaSC/SEMJRT57ESD_index_0.html)
 •  Jean-Dominique Cassini: Astrology to astronomy (http://www.esa.int/esaSC/SEMJ2T57ESD_index_0.html)

Related links

 •  NASA JPL Cassini-Huygens site (http://saturn.jpl.nasa.gov/home/index.cfm)
 •  Italian Space Agency (ASI) (http://www.asi.it)