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PASSPORT TO KNOWLEDGE - To MARS with MER
What triggers the opening of the airbag lander?
Michael
Alexander Graham
Chicago, IL
The spacecraft as it approaches the surface of Mars is constantly measuring its height above the Martian terrain and when it reaches a certain height of 200 meters or approximately 600 feet it inflates the airbags for its final impact on the Martian surface.
Adam Steltzner
EDL Mechanical Systems Lead
Jet Propulsion Laboratory