The Air-Launched Balloon System (ALBS) Development Program, Phase 2
Abstract
The circumstances leading to the second phase of the Air-Launched Balloon System Development Program are described, along with the governing design constraints. Individual component development efforts and system design modifications are described in turn: the procurement and testing of the new dewar, the qualification of the updated cryogenic unit, the redesign of the balloon/parachute interface, the solution of the extraction line recoil problem, and the development of a reliable cryogenic unit recovery system. The complicated command, control, and telemetry subsystem is also described in detail. The results of component tests and a system dress rehearsal system test are summarized. Preparations for two full-scale system tests conducted in 1981 are covered in considerable detail. The results of those tests are presented and the test data are analyzed. It is concluded that the system's air-launch and mid-air inflation techniques are acceptable. The balloon requires structural reinforcements, however, before the system can be said to be fully developed. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 15, 1981
- Accession Number
- ADA113958
Entities
People
- Andrew S. Carten Jr.
Organizations
- Air Force Research Laboratory