Optical Observations of Chemical Releases in the Upper Atmosphere During 1969, with Description of Instrument Used for Daytime Vapor-Trail Tracking

摘要

During 1969, a number of rocket payloads flown by AFCRL released clouds of chemical vapor, which were measured by triangulation and spectroscopy. This report discusses the results of spectroscopic measurements made on barium clouds and the spectrum of the luminous cloud produced by a release of diborane. A tracking instrument for detecting high-altitude vapor trails during the day is also described, together with the results of a successful field test. The results of these studies are relevant to current Air Force needs in the areas of electromagnetic wave propagation through a disturbed medium, accurate prediction of satellite orbits, and prediction of motion of nuclear debris. (Author)