Earthly Dynamics recently presented new research at the joint American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics and Royal Aeronautics Society conference on Aerodynamic Decelerator Systems (ADS) Conference in London, showcasing a promising approach for adding active control to round parachutes used in planetary entry systems. The paper, “Bleed Air Control of a Round Parachute with Application to Precision Landing on Mars,” details how small, lightweight bleed‑air mechanisms can be integrated directly into a parachute canopy to provide reliable steering authority during descent. Building on years of bleed‑air actuator development, the team examined several bleed‑air control configurations and assessed their performance using high‑fidelity flight dynamic simulations informed by balloon and aircraft airdrop testing. The results show that controlled venting can effectively shape both drive and yaw response in round canopies, providing a practical means of reducing wind‑driven landing uncertainties on Mars. This same body of work was also presented as a poster at the 2026 International Planetary Probe Workshop (IPPW) in Washington, DC, further highlighting the potential of bleed‑air control to meet stringent spacecraft entry, descent, and landing requirements. With its extremely low size, weight, and power demands, bleed‑air control offers a compelling pathway toward future precision‑landing technologies and underscores Earthly Dynamics’ ongoing commitment to advancing innovative parachute solutions for planetary exploration.
