On 21 Jun 2005 09:31:11 -0700, "John" wrote:

Here is another of those "how come" questions. What is the reason for
the two point suspension used to attach the main recovery parachute to
the Gemini spacecraft? I have googled and found descriptions of the
system but no rationale for this apparent added complexity.

Does anyone know what the anticipated consequences would have been if
the main chute deployed but did not shift from a single point to a two
point suspension? At first blush this doesnt seem to be a reason for
the crew to consider ejecting because if single point was good enough
for the first six (Mercury), seems it would sufficiently safe for a
Gemini crew.

Thank you in advance for any information that you might share.

blue skies

John

The following NASA document gives one reason for the
two point suspension system used on Gemini.

Gemini spacecraft parachute landing system - Jul 1, 1966
http://ntrs.nasa.gov/archive/nasa/ca...1966020968.pdf


"...attenuation of the landing shock by positioning the spacecraft so
that it enters the water on the corner of the heat shield, thus
eliminating the need for built-in shock absorption equipment."


Rusty