Parametric Studies on Use of Boosted Artillery Projectiles for High Altitude Research Probes, Project Harp

摘要

A general parametric and preliminary design study has been completed defining the potential capabilities of rocket boosted artillery projectiles for high altitude probes when fired from existing gun systems. The study indicates that single stage vehicles fired from a 5 inch gun can lift a 10-pound payload to 650,000 feet and a 50-pound payload to 250,000 feet. Two stage vehicles fired from a 16.4 inch gun can lift payloads of 100 pounds to altitudes greater than 400 miles. A 4.5 inch rocket boosted artillery projectile, sub-calibered in the 7 inch gun, was designed for a specific requirement for delivering a 20-pound payload to an altitude of 500,000 feet with a minimum impact dispersion; however, this does not represent the maximum payload or altitude possible for probes fired from the 7 inch gun. Comparisons were made between long burning sustainer designs with zero ignition delay and short burning booster designs with an optimum ignition delay. The comparisons indicated that both types will, for similar payloads and propellant weights, reach approximately the same altitude. A brief discussion of the orbiting capabilities of rocket boosted artillery projectiles is presented. (Author)