Sounding Rockets for Experiments in Zero-G Processing

Existing sounding rockets can be used to test equipment to be used in experiments on materials processing in space. Recent studies of the Skylark family of sounding rockets have determined actual values of residual acceleration attainable in nominally zero-gravity conditions and the possible duration of such values. The Raven VI/Goldfinch motor configuration gives 3-5 min, and the Raven XI/Goldfinch configuration 5-7 min, of flight at .0000005-.0002 G. At least 13 minutes below .000001 G may be possible with the Skylark 8.