WEAPON SYSTEM 107A-1. MARK 3 ADVANCED RE-ENTRY VEHICLE PROGRAM. STAR TRACKER.
Abstract
The data resulting from this program demonstrated that: A star tracker meeting the design specifications could be built with size, weight, and power consumption capabilities that would be compatible with space vehicle requirements as of mid-1960. The critical subsystems are as follows: (a) Optical: This subsystem would have a lens with a 12-inch focal length and 3-inch clear aperture, made of crown and low-index flint glass with an air space. Available materials permit transmission of ultraviolet light at wavelengths between 3500 and 4000 angstroms. (b) Scanning system: Mechanical scanning would be used with a photomultiplier as a detector. A vibrating reed scanner is preferred. (c) Detector system: While a vidicon technique offers advantages because of size, ruggedness and sensitivity, the initial design (mid-1960) would utilize an RCA type 1P21 photomultiplier, a proven tube with long operating lifetime, as the detector. (d) Electronics: A block diagram of a workable system was developed. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 15, 1961
- Accession Number
- AD0600637
Entities
People
- C. D. Hawn
Organizations
- General Electric