INVESTIGATION OF LOCATION AND RETRIEVAL CRITERIA FOR RE-ENTRY CREW ESCAPE SYSTEMS.
Abstract
The equations of motion for escape capsules having liftto-drag ratios ranging from 0.2 to 2.0 were solved to determine the ground area attainable for these capsules returning to earth from 300-nautical mile equatorial, polar, 30-degree, and 60-degree circular orbits. The landing capabilities of these capsules with respect to the probability of a successful recovery of the downed crew were then determined. This study indicates than an escape capsule with an L/D ratio of 1.0 represents the simplest escape capsule which would have enough maneuvering capability to reach suitable landing areas. A state-of-the art avionicw investigation was made to determine the location of existing tracking and location radars, portable emergency radios, direction-finding equipment, and acoustic and visual aids which would aid in the quick location and retrieval of a downed crew. An escape system concept is presented, emphasizing that the successful conclusion of escape requires the determination of the necessary maneuver to reach a desirable landing area, the physical execution of that maneuver, and the transmission of escape information to recovery forces. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 1964
- Accession Number
- AD0603759
Entities
People
- J. A. Campbell
- J. V. Capuzzo
Organizations
- IIT Research Institute