Flying Saucer

Nasa's 'flying saucer' for Mars splashes back down after test

A saucer-shaped NASA vehicle for Mars landings made a successful rocket ride over the Pacific, but its descent parachute only partially unfurled.

NASA to test 'flying saucer' that will be flown to Mars

Since the 1970s, NASA has used the same parachute design to slow landers and rovers as they streak through the thin Martian atmosphere.