The published density altitude for the surface of Mars is about equal to 100,000 ft on Earth. The highest altitude a gas turbine powered helicopter has ever reached on Earth is around 40,000 feet. The usual operating altitude limit is around 25,000 feet.

So, how can a 4 1/2 pound electric/solar helicopter, with contra-rotating blades, leap off the ground on Mars and zip off like a bat out of hell at a 100,000 ft density altitude? Given the shape and diameter of the blades they don't seem to be too specialized other than wider roots. Is NASA not telling us something about the Martian atmosphere?

Google it. Plenty of info out there on it.

I totally forgot to include Mars gravity. Only 38% of that on Earth. That would make it equal to around 30,000 ft density equivalent which is doable.

quote:

Originally posted by Cougarz:
Google it. Plenty of info out there on it.

Well it just had its last flight. It broke part of one rotor blade they assume on landing after a data loss. But it did perform better than expected. JPL is working on another improved one for a future mission. As a side note this first flight of a helicopter on another planet carried a small piece of the original Wright flyer to celebrate the first powered flight on earth.

Between their rovers and now helicopter they have done remarkably well. All have survived far beyond their design limits and much has been learned.

Two firsts on a different planet, flight and crash.

quote:

Originally posted by Grizzly Adams1:
Two firsts on a different planet, flight and crash.

Welcome to the real world of aerospace when you attempt something for the first time.

Planned for five flights.
Completed 72.
Like going on a first safari for a few plains game and a full bag Big Five hunt is thrown in free.