NASA to catch space capsule with a helicopter

Just came across an amazing article on the BBC about NASA‘s plans to catch a re-entering space capsule in mid-air with a helicopter. No the date hasn’t gone back to April 1st, its completely genuine!

…the Genesis space probe will eject a capsule to Earth carrying fragile samples of the solar wind – particles spewed out from the Sun.

The capsule’s fall will be slowed by two parachutes, but its fast descent means the container must be caught in mid-air by a helicopter with a hook if a damaging impact with the ground is to be avoided.

Checkout the and a Q & A with the stunt pilot.