Rain erosion considerations for launch vehicle insulation systemsIn recent years the Delta launch vehicle has incorporated the capability to be launched through rain. This capability was developed to eliminate a design constraint which could result in a costly launch delay. This paper presents the methodology developed to implement rain erosion protection for the insulated exterior vehicle surfaces. The effect of the interaction between insulation material rain erosion resistance, rainstorm models, surface geometry and trajectory variations is examined. It is concluded that rain erosion can significantly impact the performance of launch vehicle insulation systems and should be considered in their design.
Document ID
19770064004
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Daniels, D. J. (McDonnell-Douglas Astronautics Co. Huntington Beach, CA, United States)
Sieker, W. D. (McDonnell Douglas Astronautics Co. Huntington Beach, Calif., United States)
Date Acquired
August 9, 2013
Publication Date
July 1, 1977
Subject Category
Spacecraft Design, Testing And Performance
Report/Patent Number
ASME PAPER 77-ENAS-15
Meeting Information
Meeting: Intersociety Conference on Environmental Systems