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Spacecraft Model Crashes During a Test

ESA is investigating a parachute problem.

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Science news editorial illustration for ESA Investigates Space Rider Model’s Failed Landing Test

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A in on 6. on 22, .

A , but the . The to the . have not it .

Source: European Spaceflight; ESA, 2026-10-22.

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Read and understand · 1/2Which parachute problem came after the first one opened?

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The larger one came off. The account places the separation after initial deployment.

Clue: A small parachute opened, but the larger steering parachute came off. The model fell to the ground. Investigators have not yet explained why it detached.

Read and understand · 2/2Do investigators know why it came off?

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Not yet. The cause has not been explained.

Clue: A small parachute opened, but the larger steering parachute came off. The model fell to the ground. Investigators have not yet explained why it detached.

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Describe what happened without guessing the cause.

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The main parafoil separated after the first parachute opened. The cause is still being investigated.

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