Using aerodynamics for precision duna landings.

[Likasombodee]

Hello,

So I am thinking of landing large hauls of cargo/habitats on Duna, kind of like the massive landers from NASA's constellation program. But I am also debating whether to use aero dynamic wings after aerobraking than using parachutes and possibly rockets, or use a mix of parachutes and rockets after aero braking with no wings involved.

So my question is, how suitable is Duna's atmosphere for aerodynamic "gliding" a large spacecraft after aero braking?

I know I should try it myself, but I am still in the process of perfecting the transfer to Duna from Kerbin(lol). And testing similar systems on Kerbin does not provide me the confidence and data to come to a conclusion.

Thanks!

Edited June 6, 2015 by Likasombodee

[Mesklin]

Gliding on Dune much better right now, you can easily land craft in 70-80 t with only 2 big delta wings (with small help from engines) on surface with 2 km altitude with some maneuvers before (include 180 degrees turn).

[Chaos_Klaus]

The real question would be if it is useful enough to warrant bringing those wings all the way to Duna in the first place. Wings are heavy and bulky.

If you are just doing it for the fun of it: Sure, wings are great on duna. :]

Edited June 5, 2015 by Chaos_Klaus

[Likasombodee]

Thanks for your advise guys! Yeah I guess it is easier to land the normal way, but wings would be a good experiment.