AN APPROXIMATE METHOD FOR OPTICAL TRAJECTORY REDUCTION,
Abstract
A method is described for the determination of an approximate missile trajectory from optical observations. The advantage of an approximate trajectory is the use of single-station observations, the ease of measurements, and the simplicity of the calculations. Adequate results may be obtained quickly for many applications with minimum effort. The basic data consist of a night time trajectory photograph, trajectory timing, and the impact point. An inexpensive aerial camera would suffice for the optical data. Background stars define a coordinate system by which the angular trajectory relative to the observing station can be determined. The angular measurements plus an approximate trajectory plane orientation define the position coordinates. For short ranges, the impact and launch points fix a possible trajectory plane. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 10, 1963
- Accession Number
- AD0434270
Entities
People
- Robert F. Hughes
Organizations
- General Electric