Externally the Galaxy rocket parachute system looks very similar to other available products, but on closer inspection there are obvious differences which make the GRS a better unit. While it is unlikely that you will ever use the GRS in an aircraft, it is comforting to have a parachute system for an unexpected dramatic event.

The GRS is a new design in which the canopy is not gradually drawn from a box by means of a long conventional sleeve, distorted by air currents and possibly fouling on the aircraft structure or its debris, during deployment. The GRS canopy is drawn away from the aircraft in a short special compact container to a length of 15-18 metres from the aircraft depending on the size of GRS. At this point the whole hanging system from canopy to aircraft is stretched, a container lock is released and the canopy can be inflated directly, significantly reducing the risk of debris damaging the canopy. The whole design of the GRS is purposefully constructed for the fastest possible opening which enhances the potential of a rescue of the aircraft and crew from the lowest possible height.

Firing the system is done mechanically by hand pulling the activation handle with a force of approximately 9 kg. Launching ignition mechanism is activated and two igniters will be fired by double strikers which will ignite the powder load and ignite the TPH (solid fuel) of the rocket engine.

During firing there is minimum rearward impact. Unlike other similar systems, the flame from the rocket tube is not directed back in the trajectory of the rocket, which causes a powerful back fire into an aircraft construction. Existing exhausts can be diverted outside aircraft. After canopy opening above the aircraft at a height of around 18 meters the rocket engine continues its own flight with its remaining energy and seperates from the main canopy. It then free falls with its own braking INNER chute. Depending on the canopy size, the main canopy system is open and fully inflated above the aircraft between 1.5 - 6.0 seconds after being fired with regard to the flight speed. This means that a rescue can be successful from as little as 30 m to 150m over the ground, depending on the installation, position of the aircraft, its speed and trajectory. The necessary height needed for a rescue is deduced from measured figures in horizontal flight up to the stated VNE of aircraft in its MTOW.These figures are stated in the technical parameters of the system.It is possible to aim the rocket in any direction but, the best direction is vertical to the lengthwise axis of the plane in an upward or slightly oblique aft direction. The GRS system is available for use in categories Ultralights, Experimental, Light Sport Aircraft ,gliders and other, ranging from 250kg up to 2000kg of the aircraft total take off weight (MTOW). The rocket system has been designed with sufficient power reserve so that it can pull out the chute even under extreme conditions ranging in temperatures from -40°C up to +60°C.

Interesting video from tests

The producer guarantees the minimum rescue height under 100m above ground at the speed from 65km/h in horizontal flight.

GRS 5/450; GRS 5/472,5 - DULV - Nr R21/01-1, R21/01-11
Speed: 45 km/h Total time: 3,85sec.

GRS 5/525; GRS 5/560 - LAACR - ULL 10/98
Speed: 45 km/h Total time: 4,45sec.

Detail - take off GRS rocket vertical .
soft pack horizontal

Detail - take off GRS rocket 45°.
soft pack horizontal


Click on link for view video presentation

NASA claims: Pipistrel Virus is the World‘s best aircraft

Galaxy High Technology is the exclusive supplier of parachute rescue systems for the Pipistrel aircraft.