BEIJING, June 9 (Xinhua) -- During a recent space launch, China tested a parachute system that can help guide fallen rocket boosters into targeted areas, the China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology said on Friday.
The system was used on a Long March-3B rocket carrying a BeiDou navigation satellite into orbit on May 17 from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in Sichuan Province, according to the academy.
Developed by the academy, the parachute brought down the rocket boosters to a predetermined location, narrowing the range of the landing area by 80 percent.
Designed to give more precise control over where rocket boosters land, the system can automatically open its parafoil at a certain height of descent, guiding the boosters back to an estimated landing area.
Most of China's major launch sites are deep inland, meaning preventing fallen rocket parts from landing unpredictably, especially in areas with human activities, has become an urgent task for scientists.
Huairou set for Beijing film festival
Ford recalls over 456,000 Bronco Sport and Maverick cars
Noah Eagle picked by NBC as play
A neglected burial ground for migrants on Greek island of Lesbos has been given a drastic overhaul
Hamas official says no agreement with Israel if war continues in Gaza
Maui Fire Department report details how it was no match for unprecedented blazes
Former Mormon reveals the wild list of rules she was forced to follow while living within ultra
Myanmar’s junta moves Aung San Suu Kyi to house arrest, report says — Radio Free Asia
Finnish carrier suspends Estonia flights after GPS interference prevents 2 landings
Clarifications and corrections
At least 40 people die in Kenya after dam collapses
Clemson guard Chase Hunter enters NBA Draft, but retains eligibility to come back to college