NASA's Dragonfly Rotorcraft Tests its Wings in Subsonic Tunnel Ahead of Titan Mission

NASA's Dragonfly rotorcraft is prepping for its ambitious journey to Saturn's largest moon, Titan.

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The 14-by-22-foot Subsonic Tunnel at NASA Langley plays a pivotal role in Dragonfly's pre-launch preparations.

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Mimicking Titan's dense atmosphere, the tunnel offers insights into the vehicle's flight dynamics.

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Ken Hibbard highlights the tunnel's heavy gas environment, emphasizing its density, three-and-a-half times higher than air.

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Test lead Bernadine Juliano reveals over 700 runs were completed, gathering over 4,000 individual data points.

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Set to partly launch in 2027, Dragonfly stands out as a rotorcraft designed to fly in Titan's uniquely dense atmosphere.

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Titan's thick, nitrogen-rich atmosphere and low gravity make it a prime location for Dragonfly's aerial maneuvers.

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Lonnie Shekhtman draws parallels between Titan's atmosphere and early Earth, hinting at its scientific significance.

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Jim Bridenstine, NASA Administrator, envisions Dragonfly's mission as a revolutionary step in understanding life beyond Earth.

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