Multibody dynamics characteristics analysis and safety design research of the Mars parachute descent process

This paper focuses on solving the technical challenges brought by the multibody movement during the Mars parachute deceleration stage. First, the parachute system’s design scheme is introduced. The mechanism and main effects of the dynamic characteristics of the parachute deceleration process are analyzed using simulations and typical experiments. Then, the safety design schemes for parachutes, separation of heatshield, autonomous navigation, and attitude control are proposed. Finally, the in-flight results of Tianwen-1’s parachute descent process are introduced. This research can provide a meaningful reference for subsequent Mars landing missions.