Using ARC/INFO to Monitor Space Shuttle Launch Effects and Validate a Spatial Predictive Model

摘要

Space Shuttle launches produce localized acidic deposition. ne Rocket Exhaust Effluent Diffusion (REED) model predicts the spatial pattern of deposition pre-launch. Actual ground patterns are mapped in the field Post-launch. An ARC/INFO database was constructed by digitizing the REED model output and ground field maps. Statistical-analysis of data derived from ARC/INFO showed that the direction of launch cloud movement did not significantly differ from that predicted, but the REED model overpredicted both area that received deposition and the maximum distance deposition occurred from the pad. Cumulative ground deposition maps showed that near-field deposition occurred within 1600 meters of each launch pad. Total area acted has been 66.5 ha from Pad 39A launches and 52.7 ha from Pad 39B. Far-field deposition has occurred over a total of 18148 ha. In this paper we demonstrate the utility of storing, analyzing and querying spatial cumulative impact data as well as provide a means for validating a spatial model in a GIS context.