Analysis of Wind Speeds at the Space Shuttle Launch Site, Vandenberg Air Force Base
Abstract
Wind speeds at the launch complex may be a factor to be considered in ensuring safe and flawless shuttle launch. High wind speeds may lead to unacceptably large horizontal forces at vulnerable times in the launch process. Low wind speeds will reduce the capability of the atmospheric boundary layer to disperse residual HC acid vapor from the solid rocket boosters. In this analysis, we computed and presented wind-speed distributions for multiple-hr as well as 1-hr averaging periods for guidance in determining the probability that a given wind condition will persist beyond 1 hr. High wind speeds at tower level tend to arise from strong coupling of the low level flow to high speed flow aloft resulting from large pressure gradients on the synoptic-scale. Under these conditions, wind direction tends to be more uniform with height than under weak synoptic-scale forcing, so the tower level wind direction can usually be approximated from the conventional synoptic analysis or forecast maps. Low wind speeds at the launch site for brief or extended periods could lead to hazards resulting from the acid cloud lingering in the near vicinity. Even though the cloud may attain a stabilized height well above the surface, if it rains out, revolatilized acid vapor could lead to high HC vapor concentrations in the surrounding air. Since revolatilized HC vapor concentrations are inversely proportional to wind speed, extended periods of low wind speeds would result in high acid vapor densities for correspondingly long periods.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 03, 1986
- Accession Number
- ADA168565
Entities
People
- Eugene S. Takle
- Joseph D. Griffin
Organizations
- Iowa State University