Low cost flight test capabilities study

The feasibility of obtaining low cost flight data relevant to Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) reentry problems has been investigated. Multiple subscale payloads launched from booster systems composed primarily of surplus Minuteman I or Spartan hardware are shown to satisfy that objective. Computed simulations of ICBM flight conditions achievable through subscale testing are presented for a wide range of subscale reentry vehicle conditions and potential flight test objectives. An example of a low cost flight test program is presented in terms of booster systems, compatible ranges, flight test vehicle designs, experiment definitions, and program costs.