LOITER TIME FOR GEMINI B RECOVERY OPPORTUNITIES.
Abstract
The return of the Gemini B from the Manned Orbital Laboratory (MOL) to a recovery area is evaluated in terms of loiter time. Loiter time is the time required to attain an orbital position from which de-orbit may be performed which subsequently results in return to a recovery area. Maximum loiter time is of interest since an emergency may force the evacuation of the MOL at any arbitrary time. This report evaluates the effect upon the maximum loiter time of the size, location, and number of recovery sites employed. Maximum loiter times are determined for daylight only recovery as well as for situations where there are no restrictions placed upon the time at which return to the recovery site is to be made. Circular orbits with inclinations of 32.5 and 40 degrees weith altitudes of 100, 160, and 250 n. mi. were investigated in parametric studies concerning the effect of recovery area size and location upon the maximum loiter time. A site of about 400 n. mi radius (the actual value depends upon the orbit inclination and altitude) located at the Equator is sufficient to provide a daylight recovery opportunity every day. The maximum loiter time for a daylight return to a single equatorial site of the above size is therefore one day. Additional equatorial sites would reduce the maximum loiter time for daylight recovery of the Gemini B at one of the sites.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 18, 1965
- Accession Number
- AD0374393
Entities
People
- R. G. Stern
Organizations
- The Aerospace Corporation