L-3 Coleman Aerospace has successfully conducted extraction and airdrop of the jumbo drop test vehicle (JDTV) for use in Ares launch vehicles.

JDTV is a variable-weight vehicle used to test the United Space Alliance and Alliant Techsystems recovery parachutes of the Ares solid rocket first stage motor which will be refurbished to save money and protect the environment.

The JDTV is a large dart that contains the test parachutes and data systems and its weight can be adjusted from 40,000lb to 90,000lb to meet specific test objectives.

The JDTV, attached to a pallet, was extracted from a C-17 aircraft, then released from the pallet and allowed to accelerate before deploying the test parachute.

The airdrop is the third of six planned JDTV tests to support the development and verification of Nasa’s Ares I first stage recovery parachutes.

L-3 Coleman president Chris Anzalone said the test support will ensure future Ares parachutes to be safe and effective.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

The airdrop was conducted with support from the US Air Force.