Explosive Research: Eliminating ‘What Ifs?’ in Space Travel

Artist's rendition of the descent of the Pathfinder lander onto planet Mars. The lander will descend by parachute, and will be protected by airbags which will deflate upon impact. The three petals protecting the lander will open after it lands. In this rendition the petals are partially opened. (Photo by © CORBIS/Corbis via Getty Images)

UConn researchers are adapting methods for studying forces in earthly structures such as bridges and skyscrapers, for use in spacecraft.

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