Skip to main content

Questions related to the movement of human-made objects as they enter atmosphere of Earth or other planetary bodies with atmospheres from space after being successfully launched.

Questions related to the movement of human-made objects as they enter atmosphere of Earth or other planetary bodies with atmospheres (Mars, Titan, Venus etc.) from space after being successfully launched. Such objects experience high thermal and aerodynamic loads. Reentry provides the means to dispose of space objects, or reduce propellants for successful landing. The latter necessitates special design measures to ensure survival of the object and its payload, provide precision landing/targeting capabilities and/or to enable controlled maneuvering in the atmosphere. Reentry is divided into ballistic and aerodynamic.