Nasa will fly its new heat shield from Hawaii in a couple of months Tomorrow it will perform a spin-test of the new technology It is known as the low density supersonic decelerator (LDSD) Nasa says it could one day be used to take humans onto Mars
By Jonathan O'Callaghan for MailOnline
Published: 08:08 EST, 30 March 2015 | Updated: 17:18 EST, 3 April 2015
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When the first astronauts land on Mars, they will not use a conventional parachute or heat shield that has been used before.
Instead, upon impacting the upper Martian atmosphere, a large inflatable saucer-shaped structure will slow their progress.
This is the low density supersonic decelerator (LDSD) and, in June, Nasa will perform the latest test of this groundbreaking technology - a vital next step in the journey to Mars.
Scroll down for a video from last year's test
More:
Nasa prepares to test its 'flying saucer' heat shield
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