What is a "recovery harness"?

A recovery harness is essential in rocketry as it serves as a connection between the rocket and its recovery devices, such as parachutes or streamers. This system is responsible for ensuring that the recovery device deploys correctly at the appropriate altitude, allowing the rocket to descend safely back to the ground after its ascent.

If the recovery harness is designed and constructed properly, it helps absorb the forces during deployment, which prevents damage to both the recovery device and the rocket itself. This connection is crucial since the effectiveness and reliability of the recovery system directly influences the chances of a safe return to the ground, making it a vital part of the overall rocket system.

Other options, while related to the operation of a rocket, describe different components or functions. For example, devices used to launch the rocket, components that stabilize the rocket during flight, and safety mechanisms to prevent failure each serve distinct purposes that do not align with the function of connecting the rocket to its recovery devices.