Multivariate analysis of launcher guidance robustness

The role of a launcher guidance system is defined. Integrated methods of studying all the variables involved in guiding a multi-stage launcher are presented. Such a guidance system is used on the Ariane 4 and 5 launchers. The robustness of the guidance system is studied with emphasis placed on stability margins and interstage coupling measurements. The multivariate analysis technique used may also be applied to the analysis of acceptable coupling perturbations and to the analysis of truncated modalities. The technique can be used in dimensional analysis of the launcher guidance chain of command.