Re: mass limits on large manned capsules?


Mr Jim skrev:

At what point would the mass of such an integrated
spacecraft become so great that the abort system (LES or whatever) couldn't
cope with it? Would one decline an LES-like system in favor of ejection
seats or pods?

The manned Apollo CMs massed about 13,000 lbs at launch and the LES and BPC
massed about 9,200 lbs (see 'Apollo by the numbers'). If an Apollo or
Soyuz-like LES was used, would a modern 20,000 lbs capsule require a 14,000
lbs LES?

A question: Could you make a capsule in two sections, and use the LES
on the top section only ?

What problems would there be with separation, and reentry ?

Regards

Carsten Nielsen
Denmark

.

Relevant Pages

  • mass limits on large manned capsules?
    ... He suggested that all equipment normally carried in separate service, ... spacecraft become so great that the abort system couldn't ... The manned Apollo CMs massed about 13,000 lbs at launch and the LES and BPC ...
    (sci.space.history)
  • Re: mass limits on large manned capsules?
    ... The manned Apollo CMs massed about 13,000 lbs at launch and the LES and BPC ... Could you make a capsule in two sections, ... such as a pad abort or a (I'll try to avoid using ...
    (sci.space.history)