Kestrel 2 Program: Final report
The Kestrel 2 program began in 1986 as an outgrowth of the original Kestrel program, which used conventional balloon techniques and facilities, and was completed in 1988. It was undertaken to extend operational and geographic flexibility beyond that achievable using traditional techniques observed in the original program. During that time, we developed a tandem-balloon system that can be launched from any single launch site in winds up to 20 knots. We also developed a fast-fill tow balloon, which we tested by filling a tow balloon directly from it shipping container without laying it out on a long clean surface. To test the endurance of the tow balloon, we filled and repackaged the same balloon four times, once while at sea, at a fill rate of 3000 to 4000 ft/sup 3//min, using helium gas. This testing showed that the tow balloon is indeed quite rugged. We also demonstrated how to control the tow balloon with handling lines and rig the balloon in winds up to 26 knots at sea on a small ship. The tandem-balloon deployment system includes a lightweight, high-strength, waterproof payload containment canister and an explosive flight-termination system. The launch release mechanism that we designed was tested at sea. An electronics and power supply system provided tracking and command termination and was used to perform simple command functions.
- Research Organization:
- Lawrence Livermore National Lab. (LLNL), Livermore, CA (United States)
- DOE Contract Number:
- W-7405-ENG-48
- OSTI ID:
- 5892069
- Report Number(s):
- UCID-21595; ON: DE89012812
- Resource Relation:
- Other Information: Portions of this document are illegible in microfiche products
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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GENERAL PHYSICS
BALLOONS
LAUNCHING
ATMOSPHERICS
ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT
HELIUM
PROGRESS REPORT
SHIPS
WIND
AIRSHIPS
DOCUMENT TYPES
ELECTROMAGNETIC RADIATION
ELEMENTS
EQUIPMENT
FLUIDS
GASES
NOISE
NONMETALS
RADIATIONS
RADIO NOISE
RADIOWAVE RADIATION
RARE GASES
640200* - Atmospheric Physics