Space Parachutes: Predicting the Unpredictable

The video discusses the challenges and evolution of parachute technology, highlighting issues faced by SpaceX and Boeing with parachute failures. It traces the history of parachutes from Leonardo da Vinci's designs to modern applications in space missions. The video explains the complexities of parachute modeling and the need for innovations to improve reliability, including new materials and techniques like reefing and Zylon.

What was the main issue faced by SpaceX and Boeing with their parachutes?

• Parachutes failed to deploy or inflate

• Parachutes were too heavy

• Parachutes deployed too early

• Parachutes were too small

What was the shape of Leonardo da Vinci's parachute design?

• A rectangle

• A circle

• A pyramid

• A half balloon

Why was a vent added to parachute designs in the early 1800s?

• To reduce turbulence

• To change their shape

• To increase speed

• To make them lighter

What is the purpose of a drogue chute in a dual-deployment system?

• To increase the load

• To reduce the size of the main chute

• To slow down the craft for main chute deployment

• To change the direction of the craft

What challenge do engineers face when modeling parachutes?

• Making them waterproof

• Predicting air behavior and turbulence

• Finding the right color

• Ensuring they are invisible

What material is SpaceX using to improve parachute strength?

• Polyester

• Kevlar

• Zylon

• Cotton

What is the main goal of developing new parachute models and materials?

• To make parachutes reusable

• To reduce the cost of parachutes

• To address asymmetrical load distribution

• To make parachutes more colorful