ROCKETS IN SPACE ENVIRONMENT. VOLUME I - THE EXPERIMENTAL PROGRAM.
Abstract
Environmental factors constituting the space environment between 300 and 22,000 n.mi. altitude were defined. These factors included radiation (ultraviolet, infrared, and penetrating), micrometeoroids, vacuum, and zero gravity. The effects of simulated space-environmental exposure were evaluated on elastomers, structural plastics, lubricants, propellants, ablative materials, valves, regulators, actuators, bearings, and other items. It was found that large radiation doses 10 to the -9th power erg/g (C) were found to cause a minute quantit of the storable propellants tested to decompose into insoluble gases. The effects of simulated micrometeoroid impact on structural materials and propellant tank insulations were evaluated. It was found that standoff barriers and insulating materials can offer substantial protection from micrometeoroid impact. An analytical technique was developed to permit accurate evaluation of the space storability of a wide variety of propellant combinations in different vehicle configurations. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 01, 1963
- Accession Number
- AD0416294
Entities
People
- G. K. Cornelius
- J. D. O'donnell
- W. W. Howard
Organizations
- Aerojet Rocketdyne Holdings