rocket-powered-descent

The family performs a dangerous, purely rocket-driven landing from orbit without aerodynamic aids, illustrating the technical challenges of their emergency arrival.

1 chapter across 1 book

A Fire Upon the Deep (2002)Vernor Vinge

Chapter 11

This chapter depicts Johanna and her brother Jefri awakening from coldsleep aboard a damaged cargo shell after escaping a catastrophic event at the High Lab. Their parents pilot the shell through a perilous rocket-powered descent onto a partially forested, lightly populated planet with signs of intelligent but non-technological life. The landing is tense and hazardous, highlighting the fragility of their escape and the uncertain future they face on this new world.