“Vectran” Used for Mars Rover Airbags
March 26, 2004
Airbags used during the landing of NASA’s Mars exploration rover, Spirit, on January 4th were made of “Vectran” polyarylate fiber from Kuraray Co., Ltd. The company developed this high strength fiber in 1990. Its strength is about six times greater than conventional polyester fiber for apparel applications and the same as steel fiber. “Vectran” does not absorb water and does not easily become frozen even at extremely low temperatures.
Copyright Osaka Senken Ltd. Mar 2004