2.1.13 Re-entry angle is important..

• For any given spacecraft wishing to re-enter safely, an optimum angle of re-
entry exists. For Apollo capsules this angle was between 5.2o and 7.2o,
although this would differ from other spacecraft.

• If the angle is too shallow then the spacecraft will rebound, due to
compression of the atmosphere beneath it.

• If the angle is too step then the spacecraft will decelerate too quickly,
creating too much heat and burning up the spacecraft.