Performance Characteristics of Meteorological Rocket Wind and Temperature Sensors

Numerous meteorological rocket firings were conducted at mi sile ranges to obtain atmospheric data in support of missile tests, and the Meteorological Rocket Network resulted in coordinated firings designed to provide a synoptic picture of the high atmosphere. Rocket-borne inertial systems consisting of radar chaff and metalized parachutes were utilized to determine wind flow in the altitude range from 50,000 to 250,000 ft. Fall velocities, parachute oscillations, chaff dispersion, and wind sensor lag times were examined with radar and radiosonde ground equipment. Some of the problems involved in the temperature measuring system (Gamma) are also treated with respect to time constant, radiative effects, compressional and nosecone heating, and internal heating. Typical wind and temperature profiles are presented along with an application of the temperature profile t speed-of-sound and density calculations.