MISSION NAME
IRDT 1 1
Status
Success
DATE
8 FEB 2000
LAUNCH PROVIDER
Russian Federal Space Agency (ROSCOSMOS)
Launch Pad
31/6
Description
IRDT (Inflatable Re-Entry and Descent Technology) is a new technology to return payloads from orbit without a heavy heatshield and parachute system. A inflatable cone provides protection during reentry and a second inflatable extension of the cone reduces the speed further for a safe landing.
Soyuz-U-PVB
Rocket Description
A Russian orbital launch vehicle. A version of the Soyuz-U with safety modifications to prevent and resist fires in all stages and the upper stage avionics compartment.