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Search indexed NASA NTRS and DOE OSTI research on propulsion, heat transfer, battery materials and energy systems. Follow report and document links to the original sources.

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At least 37 records · Page 2

Challenges of Roll Orientation with Respect to Vehicle Heading at Touchdown for the Orion Command Module

Due to mass constraints, the Orion Command Module landing attention system requires that the capsule be oriented in a specific direction with respect to the horizontal surface-relative velocity (Heading) at touchdown in order to keep crew and vehicle loads within specifications. These constraints apply to both land and water landings. In fact, water landings are even more constrained with the addition of impact angle requirements necessary to slice through the water. There are two primary challenges with achieving this touchdown orientation: 1. Navigation knowledge of velocity (needed to determine Heading) with and without GPS, including the effects of the Heading angle itself becoming undefined as horizontal velocity decreases, and 2. Controlling to the desired orientation in the presences of chute torque and wind gusts that may change the Heading just prior to touchdown. This paper will discuss the design and performance of the current Orion navigation and control system used to achieve the desired orientation at touchdown.

Gay, Robert S.

Flammability tests for Apollo command module and lunar module mockup

The flammability test program for Apollo command module and lunar module mockups is described. The fire safety design of the modules was verified by performing deliberate ignitions at many locations while the interior atmosphere was controlled to simulate realistic flight conditions. The data obtained for each test and restrictions on various materials are discussed.

Bricker, R. W.

Pressure signatures for the Apollo command module and the Saturn 5 launch vehicle with a discussion of strong shock extrapolation procedures

Wind tunnel pressure signatures measured at Mach 10.1 for model of the Apollo Command Module and at Mach numbers from 3.01 to 7.91 for two models of the Saturn launch configuration are presented. The signatures for the command module were obtained at roll angles ranging from 0 deg to 180 deg. A brief discussion of the extrapolation of strong pressure signatures is included in the report.

Hicks, R. M.

Apollo experience report: Postflight testing of command modules

Various phases of the postflight testing of the command modules used in the Apollo Program are presented. The specific tasks to be accomplished by the task force recovery teams, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center, (formerly the Manned Spacecraft Center) and the cognizant contractors/subcontractors are outlined. The means and methods used in postflight testing and how such activities evolved during the Apollo Program and were tailored to meet specific test requirements are described. Action taken to resolve or minimize problems or anomalies discovered during the flight, the postflight test phase, or mission evaluation is discussed.

Hamilton, D. T.