X-38: the International Space Station's Emergency Vehicle

The X38 was an emergency escape craft designed to carry seven astronauts from the ISS to Earth. It underwent various tests to ensure its aerodynamic efficiency and was to be delivered by a space shuttle. The craft featured a drone parachute and a large parafoil for safe descent. Despite its advanced design, the program was canceled in 2002 due to budget cuts, leaving the ISS reliant on Soyuz spacecraft for evacuations.

How many astronauts was the X38 designed to carry back to Earth?

What was the primary purpose of the X38 craft?

Describe the design features of the X38 that allowed it to function automatically.

What was the intended duration of the journey from the space station back to Earth?

What led to the cancellation of the X38 program in 2002?