Evaluation of an Aerial Recovery Parachute System for Black Brant MK-VB Sounding Rocket Payload.

Abstract

This report presents an evaluation of an aerial recovery parachute system designed for use on the Black Brant MK-VB sounding rocket payload. Fourteen aerial drop tests were made from C-130 or B-52 aircraft flying at equivalent airspeeds ranging from 120 to 215 kt and at pressure altitudes ranging from 6,650 to 40,000 ft. One unsuccessful rocket-launched test was conducted at Eglin AFB, Florida. Cylindrical test vehicles, weight bombs, payload mockups, and an operational payload ranging in weight from 332 to 454 lb were used as the suspended loads. Rates of descent and event times were measured and parachute system performance was observed. Eight successful aerial retrivals by a JC-130 aircraft were accomplished. Based upon results of the limited number of tests conducted, it was concluded that the system can be retrieved aboard a JC-130 aircraft by either the Model 90A or Model 90B winch when used under the conditions tested. (Author)

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Sep 01, 1972
Accession Number
ADB004568

Entities

People

  • Laurence T. Byam

Organizations

  • Air Force Test Center

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Air Platforms
  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Aircrafts
  • Airspeed
  • Altitude
  • Drop Tests
  • Parachutes
  • Recovery
  • Rockets
  • Sounding Rockets
  • Test And Evaluation
  • Test Vehicles
  • Vehicles

Readers

  • Aerospace Test and Evaluation
  • Aviation Science / Aeronautics.
  • Space Exploration and Orbital Mechanics.