Landing in Mars' atmosphere (Viking, Pathfinder)
I've got a question. According to Wikipedia:
The atmosphere of Mars is relatively thin, and the atmospheric pressure on the surface varies from around 30 Pa (0.03 kPa) on Olympus Mons's peak to over 1155 Pa (1.155 kPa) in the depths of Hellas Planitia, with a mean surface level pressure of 600 Pa (0.6 kPa, or about 7-10 millibars, or 0.13 psi), compared to Earth's 101.3 kPa, and a total mass of 25 teratonnes, compared to Earth's 5148 teratonnes. However, the scale height of the atmosphere is about 11 km, somewhat higher than Earth's 7 km.
Mars surface gravity - 0.376 g
3527 kg - Viking
264 kg - Pathfinder
Now, we see that Mars reputedly has 0.59% atmospheric pressure (0.0059) and 0.48% (0.0048) atmospheric mass compared to Earth. Even if we multiply the above mentioned probe's weight by the Mars' g ratio, it's still a lot. I don't understand how the scientists could even think of landing the probes with parachutes. That could work in Earth atmosphere, but hardly in 0.5 % of it, which is reputedly present on Mars. It had to be a nice thud when the probes landed, or better said, crashed. What exactly did the parachutes decelerate on? They wouldn't even open in that pressure! Effectivity of rocket propulsion is also doubtful.
However, we did receive some nice data and pictures. Is it possible, that the atmosphere of Mars is much more dense than it is still claimed? If yes, who's responsible severed head should we hang above the university gates?
Beings who deserve worship don't demand it. Beings who demand worship don't deserve it.