The g-load experienced during the re-entry is more a function of the entry trajectory that is flown than the speed of entry. For example, the crews of several

The g-load experienced during the re-entry is more a function of the entry trajectory that is flown than the speed of entry. For example, the crews of several Soyuz missions experienced 8+ G's when the so-called "ballistic" re-entry mode occurred due to various systems problems. Apollo crews returning from the moon commonly experienced 6 - 7 g loads during re-entry The US space shuttle's entry profile was designed to limit decelerations to 3 g's (as was the ascent profile). It isn't the speed, it's how you fly the ascent/descent profile. And yes, the conical Apollo capsule form (largely re-used by Orion) is a lifting body that is actually flown through the atmosphere. http://www.chron.com/news/nation-world/article/U-S-astronaut-recalls-terrifying-Soyuz-descent-1759455.php http://www.chron.com/news/nation-world/article/U-S-astronaut...