Re: Saturn V fins?

On Apr 8, 9:38 am, "Ken S. Tucker" <dynam...@xxxxxxxxxxxx> wrote:
Acknowledged this is an old debate, but fresh insight may surface,
opinions invited.
First let me say I have the highest respect for von Braun and
his team, so I think there is a rational reason, but even rocket
scientist's ask that question.

1) During the 1st stage boost an F-1 gimbal failurehttp://en.wikipedia.or
g/wiki/F-1_(rocket_engine)
The fins would maintain enough stability to give time for the
escape tower rockets to be a activated.

2) During 2nd stage separation, when the explosive bolts
fire, the 1st stage will have a positively predictable orientation.
If a bolt malfunctioned or was delayed, once again the escape
tower needs a decision if it is to be activated.

I think Braun et al thought alot about a manned rated booster
from the start, while the previously Atlas and Titan were nuke
throwers.
Regards
Ken S. Tucker

Neither are true

#1 The fins would have no effect (velocity was too slow) during the
time the vehicle was vulnerable (near the LUT) to engine hard over.
Additionally, the EDS would activate based on attitude rates
regardless if the fins were there or not

#2, the staging occurred at too high of an attitude for the small fins
to have any effect on the stability of the first stage

man rating is not a big deal, mostly smoke and mirrors for the
uninformed. After all, Atlas and Titan were "man rated" after the
fact


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