POINT RETURN FROM A LUNAR MISSION FOR A VEHICLE THAT MANEUVERS WITHIN THE EARTH'S ATMOSPHERE
Abstract
The point return of a vehicle with a lift-to-drag ratio of 1/2, returning from a lunar mission, was investigated. The range of a vehicle that is restricted to an altitude below 400,000 feet after entry is compared to the range of a vehicle that is allowed to skip to an altitude of 400 miles. Required entry conditions for point return are examined for sample cases of skip and no-skip trajectories.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 1961
- Accession Number
- AD0265890
Entities
People
- Barbara J. Short
- Simon C. Sommer
Organizations
- National Aeronautics and Space Administration