Graphite/Epoxy Composite Adapters for the Space Shuttle/Centaur Vehicle

By: Nasa, National Aeronautics and Space Adm

The decision to launch various NASA satellite and Air Force spacecraft from the Space Shuttle created the need for a high-energy upper stage capable of being deployed from the cargo bay. Two redesigned versions of the Centaur vehicle which employed a graphite/epoxy composite material for the forward and aft adapters were selected. Since this was the first time a graphite/epoxy material was used for Centaur major structural components, the development of the adapters was a major effort. An overview of the composite adapter designs, subcomponent design evaluation test results, and composite adapter test results from a full-scale vehicle structural test is presented. Kasper, Harold J. and Ring, Darryl S. Glenn Research Center NAS3-2290...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1728938228
• ISBN13: 9781728938226
• Release Date: January 1
• Publisher: Independently Published
• Length: 40 Pages
• Weight: 0.26 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.1" x 8.5" x 11.0"