1983 LTA technology assessmentSeveral aspects of LTA (lighter-than-air) technology development are reviewed. Technological developments of classical airships through 1974 are examined. A brief historical and technological summary of five specialized LTA equipment concepts is presented: metal-clad airships, free balloons, semibuoyant vehicles, high-altitude platforms, and tethered aerostats. Current LTA technology developments are reviewed with particular emphasis on VTOL airships capable of heavy lift and on long endurance types for coastal maritime patrol. Finally, the future prospects of LTA system development are considered with attention given to manned conventional and hybrid vehicles, tethered vehicles, and RPVs.
Document ID
19830055188
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Ashford, R. L. (Westinghouse Electric Corp. TCOM, Columbia, MD, United States)
Browning, R. G. E. (Goodyear Aerospace Corp. Akron, OH, United States)
Levitt, B. B. (Summit Research Corp. Gaithersburg, MD, United States)
Mayer, N. J. (NASA Headquarters Washington, DC United States)
Woodward, D. E. (Association of Balloon and Airship Constructors Alexandria, VA, United States)