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A method of atmospheric density measurements during Shuttle entry using UV laser Rayleigh scatteringA detailed study is described of the performance capabilities and the hardware requirements for a method in which ambient density is measured along the Space Shuttle flight path using on-board optical instrumentation. The technique relies on Rayleigh scattering of light from a pulsed, ultraviolet, ArF excimer laser operating at a wavelength of 193 nm. The method is shown to be capable of providing direct measurements of ambient density with an uncertainty of less than 1 percent and with a spatial resolution of 1 km, over an altitude range from 50 to 90 km. In addition, extensions of this concept are discussed that allow measurements of the shock wave location and the density profile within the shock layer. Two approaches are identified that appear to be feasible, in which the same laser system is used for the extended measurements as that required for the ambient density measurements.
Document ID
19870055778
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Mckenzie, Robert L.
(NASA Ames Research Center Moffett Field, CA, United States)
Date Acquired
August 13, 2013
Publication Date
June 1, 1987
Subject Category
Spacecraft Instrumentation
Report/Patent Number
AIAA PAPER 87-1530
Accession Number
87A43052
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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