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Re-entry technology demonstrator launched
 
7 October 2005

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Inflatable Re-entry and Descent Technology (IRDT)
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IRDT will be launched into space and then returned to Earth to test technologies required to safely guide a vehicle through the Earth's fiery atmosphere and back to Earth.

Credits: ESA/Lavochkin
 
 
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IRDT
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Inflatable Re-entry and Descent Technology (IRDT) is a new technology, which enables re-entry from orbit and landing without the need of a heavy heat shield and parachute system. The 140 kg system consists of a small ablative nose from which a cone-shaped flexible heat shield is inflated to provide braking and thermal protection during re-entry. The flexible heat shield support structure is covered by an insulating layer which itself is protected by a silica-based fabric impregnated with an ablative material in contact with the hot plasma flow. A second inflatable extension of the cone reduces the speed of the Demonstrator during subsonic flight to ensure a safe landing.
 
 
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Human Spaceflight utilisationSpace EngineeringIRDT factsheetAbout IRDT
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EADS Space TransportationNPO Lavochkin
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IRDT mission profileIRDT windtunnel testingIRDT thermal testing
 
 
 
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