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Spitzer, C. R.

Publications and source records attributed to Spitzer, C. R..

29 records · Page 2

Physical properties of the Martian surface from the Viking 1 lander - Preliminary results

Examination of the erosion of the surface of Mars caused by the descent engines of the Viking 1 lander indicates that the soil is stronger and/or denser than the 'lunar nominal' soil (an artificially produced soil with a particle size distribution similar to results for lunar soils obtained by Apollo 11) used in preflight site alteration tests. There is further evidence to suggest that the finer grains are not as small as those of the lunar nominal material, and that the soil under the lander footpads is relatively stiff. The crater, depressions, and ejecta associated with the impact of a latch pin which fell from the surface sampler are consistent with terrestrial soils with very low cohesions, small grain size, and a density of 1.2 to 1.7 g/cu cm.

Shorthill, R. W.

The Vikings are coming

The exploration of Mars with the aid of the two Viking landers is discussed. The probable landing date for Viking Lander 1 will be July 4, 1976, and for Lander 2 September 4, 1976. The criteria used in selecting the landing site are considered along with the procedure to be employed in the final approach of the lander to the planet and the touchdown. A description is given of the studies to be conducted by the lander, taking into account the search for life and the collection of meteorological and seismological data. Attention is also given to technical data concerning the spacecraft, details regarding the software, and the ground facilities on earth which are used for the Viking project.

Spitzer, C. R.

Exposure interlock for oscilloscope cameras

An exposure interlock has been developed for oscilloscope cameras which cuts off ambient light from the oscilloscope screen before the shutter of the camera is tripped. A flap is provided which may be selectively positioned to an open position which enables viewing of the oscilloscope screen and a closed position which cuts off the oscilloscope screen from view and simultaneously cuts off ambient light from the oscilloscope screen. A mechanical interlock is provided between the flap to be activated to its closed position before the camera shutter is tripped, thereby preventing overexposure of the film.

Spitzer, C. R.

Hyperbola-generator for location of aperiodic events

Plotting device, when used in conjunction with three or more detectors and local receiver and recorder, can quickly pinpoint location of any aperiodic event. Operation requires minimal training and is readily adapted to the field. Mechanical error in device prototype is less than or equal to 3 percent.

Paucker, H. R.

Thin-film gage measures low heat-transfer rates

Low heat-transfer gage facilitates determination of the transition between laminar and turbulent conditions, in the boundary layer surrounding slender and moderately slender cones under test in a hypersonic blowdown helium tunnel. The gage consists of a thin layer of vacuum-evaporated platinum on a heat resistant glass substrate contoured to fit model surfaces.

Spitzer, C. R.