Thermal Effects on a Rotating Missile.
Abstract
This thesis sought to determine if rotation would decrease the maximum skin temperature of an ICBM, thus increasing its probability of survival, The first scenario investigated was the Peacekeeper Dense Pack system. The missile field was subjected to a walk attack of 2 MAT weapons, with incoming RV's exploding every two secs. The 2nd scenario was a 4-on-1 attack of a missile launching system--specifically, one missile was subjected to four bursts located in various positions surrounding the missile. Finally, a missile is attacked by a space-based laser with a maximum absolute power of 10 megawatts. In all cases, the rotation rate was limited to a maximum of 1.6 radians/sec. In all scenarios studied, rotation significantly decreased the maximum skin temperature and increased the missile's probability of survival. The decrease was most dramatic for the walk attack where an optimum rotation rate of .8 radians/sec was established. For the 4-on-1 attack, rotation was effective but required the maximum 1.6 radians/sec rotation rate for best results. For the laser threat rotation was effective, with the maximum rotation rate providing the greatest amount of protection.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 1986
- Accession Number
- ADA172799
Entities
People
- David H. Kristensen
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology