NASA Video Shows What It's Like To Reenter the Earth's Atmosphere

astroengine writes: In a mesmerizing new video released by NASA, the Dec. 5 reentry of the Orion test space vehicle is chronicled — and it's a phenomenal 10-minute ride from fiery reentry to sudden splashdown into the Pacific Ocean. (YouTube Link.)

Comments

Makes me want to play some KSP

[werepants]

You can't really appreciate what NASA does until you build your own rocket, load it up with little green men, and crash it dozens of times while you try to learn how to orbit. Kerbal Space Program taught me how impressive this achievement really is.

Parachute Reefing

[Irate Engineer]

Sliders are not utilized on these parachutes. A reefing line, basically a circular cord holding the skirt of the parachute closed, is cut after a predetermined delay using small timed pyrotechnic cutting charges. These are designed to keep the parachute from overpressurizing and blowing out during high-velocity opening. FYI - I was a parachute & survival equipment specialist in the USAF.