A parachute has failed during a Nasa test of new technology for landing larger spacecraft and eventually astronauts on Mars.

The test off the Hawaiian island of Kauai was investigating technology designed to slow down a large landing vehicle falling through the atmosphere at supersonic speeds.

But shortly after the test re-entry started, the high-tech parachute tore away. Engineers say more work will be needed to strengthen the parachutes.

Tim Allman reports.

Pictures courtesy of Nasa.