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A Method to Characterize Parachute System Instability Modes
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A simplified, yet robust, parachute system stability analysis is performed using a 5-DOF (altitude, pitch,
& yaw) descent trajectory simulation. Several trade studies are performed to determine what types of initial
conditions and wind perturbations can result in pitching (i.e. planar) or coning instability modes. Building on
these results, several vehicle design sensitivities are performed to roughly describe the trend in stability with
canopy trailing distance, canopy diameter, & payload mass. As a complement to these sensitivities and trade
studies, an early Mars EDL research drop test is analyzed as a case study. During this drop test, the system
experienced uncharacteristically large pitch oscillations primarily driven by canopy vortex shedding. Data
from this drop test will be used to determine the trajectory & vehicle design space within which this behavior
could be expected.