An evaluation of the MSBLS/nose boom interference for the approach and landing test

An analysis was performed to investigate whether or not the obstruction caused by boom-mounted probes forward of the Orbiter nose could cause Microwave Scan Beam Landing System (MSBLS) data dropout during the autoland flight phase of the Approach and Landing Test (ALT). The results indicate that there will be no interference from the nose boom to cause MSBLS data dropout for the flight conditions under which the ALT is to be performed. Additional analysis considering approach trajectories in more extreme wind conditions than anticipated for the ALT also indicates that the nose boom creates no interference.