Engineering topics
Publications and source records attributed to Smith, P. L..
The index of refraction of krypton has been measured at 27 wavelengths between and including 168 and 288 nm. The probable error of each measurement is plus or minus 0.1%. Our results are compared with other measurements. Our data are about 3.8% smaller than those of Abjean et al.
The operational plans for ERTS include cloud-cover forecasting as a means of preventing the limited lifetime of the spacecraft's tape recorder to be used up on useless imagery. Each day, a forecast of the cloud cover is prepared for all land areas beneath the satellite's track and some adjacent ocean areas for each of the next day's 14 passes. The forecasts are transmitted by facsimile to the ERTS Operations Control Center at 4:00 p.m. each day, where they are used to plan the next day's operations. The forecasting techniques employed are described.
An advanced lightweight insulation system suitable for use in long duration, low pressure planetary orbiter-type motor applications was developed. Experiments included the screening of various filler and binder materials with optimization studies combining the best of each. Small scale test motor data were used to judge the degree of success.
Solid propellants based on low cost hydroxyl terminated polybutadiene binders meeting burning rate, mechanical properties and processing requirements for large booster motors
Standard fifth wheel mounted on a rectangular steel structure adapted for use with a fork lift truck provides a fast, safe, and economical way of maneuvering semitrailers in close quarters at plants and warehouses. One operator can move and locate a semitrailer without dismounting from a fork lift truck.
Medical applications of aerospace science and technology