Stratospheric Ozone Reactive Chemicals Generated by Space Launches Worldwide.

Abstract

We report quantities of inorganic chlorine compounds and aluminum oxide particles (Al203) deposited in the stratosphere and troposphere by solid rocket propelled launch vehicles. Totals are presented by launch vehicle type, summarized on an annual basis, and projected to the year 2010 using standard mission models. Data are given for Air Force, NASA (shuttle and expendable vehicles), the European Space Agency (ESA) (Ariane 5), and the Japanese Space Agency (H-1 and H-2). Whereas inorganic chlorine compounds released by solid rockets are directly related to stratospheric ozone depletion, much uncertainty surrounds reactivity of aluminum oxide particles. We also compare current and future effects of space launch on stratospheric ozone depletion with those of Ozone Depleting Chemicals (ODCs). As a baseline, we use projections of future ODC use by SMC, Air Force Materiel Command (AFMC), and the world. Relevant stratospheric chemistry is considered to make a legitimate comparison of ODC and solid rocket exhaust. (jg)

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Nov 01, 1994
Accession Number
ADA289852

Entities

People

  • B. B. Brady
  • E. W. Fournier
  • L. R. Martin
  • R. B. Cohen

Organizations

  • The Aerospace Corporation

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Air Force
  • Aluminum Oxides
  • Ballistic Missiles
  • Chemical Synthesis
  • Chemistry
  • Chlorine
  • Chlorine Compounds
  • Combustion Products
  • Environment
  • Halogens
  • Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles
  • Launch Vehicles
  • Ozone Depletion
  • Rocket Engines
  • Rocket Exhaust
  • Rockets
  • Vehicles

Fields of Study

  • Environmental science

Readers

  • Aerospace Engineering.
  • Environmental Engineering.
  • Rocket Propulsion.

Technology Areas

  • Space