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Scaled Lunar Module Jet Erosion ExperimentsAn experimental research program was conducted on the erosion of particulate surfaces by a jet exhaust. These experiments were scaled to represent the lunar module (LM) during landing. A conical cold-gas nozzle simulating the lunar module nozzle was utilized. The investigation was conducted within a large vacuum chamber by using gravel or glass beads as a simulated soil. The effects of thrust, descent speed, nozzle terminal height, particle size on crater size, and visibility during jet erosion were determined. Results indicate that, from an erosion and visibility standpoint, the best landing mode for a lunar module type of vehicle would involve: site inspection and selection above the incipient erosion height, and a fast descent to the highest drop-in altitude that the vehicle structure could withstand. A slow and cautious descent with hovering just above the lunar surface would greatly increase crater size and impair visibility.
Document ID
19690013268
Acquisition Source
Langley Research Center
Document Type
Other - NASA Technical Note (TN)
Authors
Norman S Land
(Langley Research Center Hampton, Virginia, United States)
Harland F Scholl
(Langley Research Center Hampton, Virginia, United States)
Date Acquired
September 2, 2013
Publication Date
April 1, 1969
Subject Category
Spacecraft Propulsion And Power
Report/Patent Number
NASA-TN-D-5051
Accession Number
69N22630
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: 124-08-05-15-23
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.
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