Next generation Unmanned Space Experiment Recovery System (USERS)

(Image courtesy of Institute for Unmanned Space Experiment Free Flyer [USEF])

Kawasaki was responsible for developing the structure and heat shield system for the recovery capsule of the USERS, which successfully made the first reentry from orbit and safe landing on earth in the history of Japanese space exploration.

Launched in September 2002
Made reentry and was recovered in May 2003
Dimensions of recovery capsule: approx. 1.5 m in diameter, 1.3 m in height

Structure and heat shield of recovery capsule
The collected recovery capsule