Laser Rayleigh-Scattering During Space Shuttle Entry

Abstract

Report presents detailed study of capabilities and requirements for equipment of proposed ultraviolet Rayleigh-scattering instrument to be carried aboard Space Shuttle. Density of atmosphere around flightpath measured. With accuracy and resolution, measurements adequate for detection of small-scale meteorological structure affecting analysis of flight dynamic data of reentering spacecraft. Also discusses extensions of concept to measurements of location of, and density as function of position in, shock wave of Space Shuttle. Measurements provide baseline data for verification of computer models of high-enthalpy hypersonic, nonequilibrium, and viscous conditions.