SpaceX test parachute system for Commercial Crew Dragon

[jedsmd]

There is a small possibility that Dragon2 will not jetison the cover for the docking adapter (or the CBM in case of the cargo version), but that it will open like a clamshell. Would it make sense to put the things currently in the sensor bay into/onto the cover (attached to either side of the cover)?

That's a very insightful thought, but think of the Dragon berthed to the ISS using this arrangement.  Would there be enough clearance for the arm to grapple the PDGF?

If we're making up new configurations using the nosecone, it could be hinged at the top and at one side, allowing the split nosecone to lay along one wall of the Dragon capsule. Then if it latched to the side, it could provide an accessible location for the sensor bay equipment, comparable to the current location.

It's a relatively large change though, to a mission-critical piece of kit. Ideally any opening nosecone placement would be flown on a Dragon that has the current sensor bay configuration so that actuation and clearances can be easily tested. Since the closure (or worst-case, jettison) of the nosecone might be a critical task for successful re-entry, NASA would probably be a little anxious about downmass risks.

Cargo Dragon approaches the ISS grapple fixture (and Sensor Bay) first.  Manned Dragon should approach the station nose first?  Therefore makes some since to have the sensors under the nose cone to point toward the station during approach.

[Joffan]

Cargo Dragon approaches the ISS grapple fixture (and Sensor Bay) first.  Manned Dragon should approach the station nose first?  Therefore makes some since to have the sensors under the nose cone to point toward the station during approach.

I was thinking of cargo dragon, which is off-topic for this thread in fact, apologies.