ISRO successfully demonstrated the new technology with Inflatable Aerodynamic Decelerator (IAD)

ISRO successfully demonstrated the new technology with Inflatable Aerodynamic Decelerator (IAD). It was test-flown today in a Rohini-sounding rocket from TERLS, Thumba at 12.20 pm local time. IAD, flown in stowed condition, inflated at ~ 84 km altitude descended through the atmosphere. IAD enables various space applications like recovery of spent stages of rockets, landing payloads on Mars/ Venus, and making space habitats for humans.
“This demonstration opens a gateway for cost-effective spent stage recovery using the Inflatable Aerodynamics Decelerator technology and this IAD technology can also be used in ISRO’s future missions to Venus and Mars,” said Shri S Somanath, Chairman ISRO, Secretary DOS who witnessed the launch.