Search NASA⌕ Search

Engineering topics

Shirley, D. L.

Publications and source records attributed to Shirley, D. L..

3 records
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
NASA NTRS1975

Mariner 10 mission analysis - Application of a black art

A major accomplishment of the mission analysis performed for Mariner 10 was the selection of a trajectory which optimized science return from the mission. The analysis utilized simple, unweighted 'science value functions' which allowed the relative values of each candidate trajectory, for each of the seven science experiments, to be calculated. A total relative value for each trajectory was determined by a simple averaging process and sensitivities were revealed by multiplying individual values. This showed a clear scientific preference for launching in early November and was used to support deferral of the launch from early October to November 3, 1973.

Shirley, D. L.↗
NASA NTRS1972

Mariner Venus-Mercury 1973 encounter strategy.

This paper describes the selection of launch and arrival conditions and Venus and Mercury encounter aiming zones to maximize the science return from the Mariner Venus-Mercury mission. A single Mariner spacecraft will be launched in November, 1973, fly by Venus in early February, 1974, and encounter Mercury (the primary target) in late March, 1974. Mercury aiming points will provide: (1) sun and earth occultation, (2) 1000 km periapsis altitude, and (3) return to Mercury after 176 days (two Mercury years). The selected Mercury arrival dates allow high-contrast television imaging. Aiming points at Venus allow gravity assist to Mercury and also permit earth occultation.

Shirley, D. L.↗