NASA’s Next-Gen Mars Helicopter Blades Break Sound Barrier in Record Test
Ingenuity's little-helicopter-that-could proved that flight on another planet isn't just a one trick pony, but something that can be expanded upon. Enter NASA's next-generation Mars helicopter blades that have passed Mach 1 in ground tests, which could mean that future rotorcraft can carry more cargo and fly further, faster, and higher in thin Martian air. The result is part engineering proof, part rehearsal for what might be the next big step in Mars exploration.
In a chamber at the JPL that mimics Mars-like conditions, engineers have been able to spin the rotor tips of a three-blade model fast enough to exceed the sound barrier without the blades disintegrating (plus maintaining stable aerodynamic performance throughout the test). At the maximum attained speeds of Mach 1.08, the Mar's vehicle was found to have roughly 30% more lift capability, meaning that support for higher mission payload and/or even a bigger craft with bigger...
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