Environmental monitoring of Space Shuttle launches at Kennedy Space Center - The first ten yearsSpace Shuttle launches produce local environmental effects through the generation of a launcher exhaust plume that in turn produces acidic depositions and acute vegetation damage in the near-field environment; fish kills have also been noted in the lagoon or impoundment near each of the launch pads. Repeated launches lead to cumulative changes in plant community composition and structure, and temporary decreases in pH due to acidification increases metal availability in soil microcosms and surface waters. Direct effects on terrestrial fauna include the mortality of birds, mammals, amphibians, and reptiles in the near-field area.
Document ID
19930039005
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Schmalzer, Paul A. (NASA John F. Kennedy Space Center Cocoa Beach, FL, United States)
Hall, Carlton R. (NASA John F. Kennedy Space Center Cocoa Beach, FL, United States)
Hinkle, C. R. (NASA John F. Kennedy Space Center Cocoa Beach, FL, United States)
Duncan, Brean W. (Bionetics Corp.; NASA, Kennedy Space Center Cocoa Beach, FL, United States)
Knott, William M., III (NASA John F. Kennedy Space Center Cocoa Beach, FL, United States)
Summerfield, Burton R. (NASA Kennedy Space Center Cocoa Beach, FL, United States)
Date Acquired
August 16, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1993
Subject Category
Environment Pollution
Report/Patent Number
AIAA PAPER 93-0303
Meeting Information
Meeting: AIAA, Aerospace Sciences Meeting and Exhibit