Earthly Dynamics recently completed a successful NASA SBIR Phase I effort focused on exploring new ways to add steering capability to the heritage Disk‑Gap‑Band parachute used in Mars landings. In this first phase, the team developed and tested lightweight canopy‑mounted flap concepts that redirect airflow within the parachute, giving the round parachute a level of controllability it has never had in Mars applications. Through a blend of ground testing and flight experiments, the project showed that simple, low‑impact modifications to the gap band can meaningfully influence parachute motion during descent. These results lay the groundwork for future technologies that could improve landing precision for missions to the Martian surface, and they highlight Earthly Dynamics’ continued commitment to advancing innovative parachute solutions for planetary exploration.
