Entry from Lunar and Planetary Missions

Abstract

In recent years, space technology has progressed from that required for small unmanned earth-orbital satellites and manned earth-orbital spacecraft to unmanned planetary probes and unmanned lunar-landing devices. Firm national commitments have been made for a manned lunar landing within the next several years. With the completion of the design, ground test, and preliminary flight test of the Apollo spacecraft, new emphasis is being placed on missions leading to greater utility of earth-orbital systems. Of particular interest are increased payload, extended mission duration, and more operational flexibility. Concurrently, extensive effort is being expended to examine the factors involved in extending the initial lunar-landing capability of early Apollo flights to lunar exploration, planetary flyby, and, finally, planetary landing. It is with the latter missions that this chapter is concerned, since these missions may require the use of new design concepts. In defining the problems associated with flights to the planets and developing their solutions, it is useful to exploit the technology already gained from contemporary earth-orbital entry vehicles.

The author gratefully acknowledges the assistance of Mr. G. M. Hanley, whose many discussions and critiques contributed significantly to the preparation of this chapter.