Ground test program for new Atlas payload fairings

Abstract

To establish the competitiveness of the revitalized family of Atlas launch vehicles (I, II, IIA, and IIAS) a new series of payload fairings, an 11-foot and a 14-foot diameter version, were designed to accommodate the widest possible variety of satellites. Because these aluminum fairings are new designs, the plant at which they are produced is new, and launch customers are very anxious to fly their payloads, an ambitious and efficient test program is essential. Five major tests have been planned for completion within the span of one calendar year. One of these has been completed, with every indication that it was a success, one is currently under way, and two more are scheduled to start in the month of April. Through effective use of test assets, facilities, and personnel, all testing will be completed, allowing the fairing design to be completely characterized and then qualified through analysis prior to first launch of each of the fairings.