A Methodology to Assess the Best Estimate Trajectory (BET) Results Generated for the Kwajalein Missile Range.
Abstract
The primary objective of this study is the creation of a methodology whereby more realistic assessments of the aerodynamic forces acting upon reentry vehicles flown from the U.S. West Coast to the Kwajalein Missile Range (KMR) are obtained. This proposed methodology is based on a compilation of various sources of information into a knowledge base. These data would include trajectory estimates via all available post-flight Best Estimate Trajectory (BET) sources, associated data from radar and optical tracking sites, and information from atmospheric models and measurements. Additionally, this database will incorporate telemetered on-board sensor measurements when available. As a result, a knowledge base would exist including historical and future-generated data to be utilized for detailed statistical assessments of the aerodynamic and atmospheric issues effecting reentry vehicles. These findings could then be implemented in the various trajectory fitting processes by enhancing the subsequent modeling of these critical forces. Also, this report discusses, and recommends the use of, a BET methodology to support a limited set of reentry vehicle tests which utilize on-board instrumentation. These results would provide another set of valuable data to be included in the database analyses implied above. Moreover, this BET generation process is proposed herein as the primary contributor for a KMR tracking sensor study.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 13, 1991
- Accession Number
- ADA240770
Entities
People
- John T. Findlay