Mechanical Engineering student Ellyssa Purdy showcases project at the AAS John Glenn Memorial Symposium

Ellyssa Purdy, a senior in Mechanical Engineering, showcased the term project titled “Effect of Parachute Deployment on the Descent Phase of a Dual-Deployment Rocket” at the esteemed John Glenn Memorial Symposium held from July 17^th to 19^th at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio. This national symposium, hosted by the ‘American Astronautical Society’ and ‘NASA Glenn Research Center,’ provided a platform for scholars and professionals to discuss advancements in aerospace. The project, stemming from Dr. Rasedul Islam’s Analysis of Dynamic Systems course, delved into the critical role of parachutes in ensuring flight safety. This research explored strategies to enhance parachute effectiveness, revealing that augmenting their effect during the descent phase significantly improves overall flight safety. These findings not only present new research avenues but also hold the potential to advance flight data-trend analyses, contributing to the safety and success of future space exploration missions. Ellyssa’s participation in the symposium aligns with her summer 2023 internship at NASA Glenn Research Center, showcasing her commitment to and involvement in cutting-edge aerospace research.