Allen B Henning

About

Allen B. Henning is a key figure in the development of advanced entry vehicle architectures for planetary sample return missions. His primary research focuses on the design and trade-space analysis of robotic sample return systems, particularly the trade-offs between passive and parachute-based deceleration technologies. Henning’s most notable contribution is the conceptualization of the Multi-Mission Earth Entry Vehicle (MMEEV), a flexible vehicle platform derived from the Mars Sample Return (MSR) Earth Entry Vehicle (EEV) design. This innovation allows mission planners to parametrically explore critical design trades—such as entry speed, heat shield sizing, and landing accuracy—during the preliminary study phase, significantly streamlining the path from concept to mission architecture. His seminal 2016 paper, “Passive vs. parachute system architecture for robotic sample return vehicles,” has garnered 2 citations, serving as a foundational reference for engineers designing next-generation sample return missions. Henning’s work is instrumental in enabling cost-effective, adaptable solutions for returning extraterrestrial samples, directly supporting NASA’s long-term goals for Mars and other planetary exploration.

Research Focus

Key Achievements

Top Papers

1. 1
   Passive vs. parachute system architecture for robotic sample return vehicles

   2 citations · 2016

Key Collaborators

Contact & Links