Small Payload Quick Return


Small Payload Quick Return is a NASA Ames Research Center concept to return small payloads from orbit.
The system uses an Exo-Brake, a parachute-like drag device for use in the low-pressure exosphere of Low Earth Orbit. This is the first part of a three part return system, operating from 350 to 100 km.

Exo-Brake

The first test of the Exo-Brake system from orbit began with the launching of the TechEdSat-3p nano-satellite from the International Space Station on November 19, 2013.
TechEdSat-4 is expected to test an Exo-Brake with variable drag in 2014.
TechEdSat-3p took over 60 days to deorbit, while TechEdSat-4 reentered in about 30 days.
A newer Exo-Brake system was tested on TechEdSat-5, deployed from the ISS in 2017. It is a flexible cross shape that can be warped for steering during reentry.

SOAREX Flights

Several investigations related to the SPQR programs and TechEdSat have been flown on Sub-Orbital Aerodynamic Re-entry Experiments sounding rockets flights.
SOAREX-6 flew 27 November 2008 on an ATK Sub-orbital/Orion 50xl sounding rocket.
SOAREX-7 flew 28 May 2009 aboard a Terrier-Orion sounding rocket launched from Wallops Flight Facility in Virginia. A TDRV was successfully tested after the flight reached its apogee of 134 km.
On SOAREX-8, which launched on a Terrier Black-Brant suborbital sounding rocket, a wireless sensor module, a camera, various communication devices, and a full Exo-Brake were tested.
On SOAREX-9, a wireless sensor module, a camera, and various communication devices were tested.