two monthly reports on usaf guided missile test activities ... · description of document: two...
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Description of document: Two Monthly Reports on USAF Guided Missile Test Activities at Holloman Air Development Center, Holloman AFB NM, Prepared by 6580th Missile Test Group, AD-0001189, 14 Jan 1953 and AD-0010909, 20 May 1953
Requested date: 10-June-2008 Released date: 29-July-2008 Posted date: 30-July-2008 Source of document: 49 CS/SCOK
Holloman Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Office 1321 Tularosa Road Holloman AFB, NM 88330 Email: [email protected]
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DEPARTMENT OF THE AIR FORCEHEADQUARTERS 49TH FIGHTER WING (ACe)HOLLOMAN AIR FORCE BASE, NEW MEXICO
29 July 2008
49 CS/SCOKHolloman Freedom ofInformation Act (FOIA) Office1321 Tularosa RoadHolloman AFB, NM [email protected]
Your June IO, 2008 Freedom ofInformation Act request for a copy of the following:
- AD-00I0909 USAF Guided Missile Test Activities, 20 May 1953,44 pages (Unclass/Limited)- AD-OOOI 189 USAF Guided Missile Test Activities, 14 Jan 1953, 36 pages (Unclass/Limited)
is releasable and is attached.
Department of Defense Regulation 5400.7 indicates fees be assessed for processing thisrequest; however, the fees are waived in this instance.
Sincerely
WILLIAM A. LIBBY, Lt Col, USAFDeputy Commander, 46 Test Group
Attachment:Releasable Records
FOIA 2008-0023
q{o6a{ Power for jl.merica
UNCLASSIFIED I LIMITED
USAF GUIDED MISSILE TEST ACTIVITIES
ADOOl189
AIR FORCE MISSILE DEVELOPMENT CENTER HOLLOMAN AFB NM
"14 JAN 1953
Distribution authorized to 000 only. Other requests sh~llbe
referred to. Holloman Air Development Center, Holloman AFB, NM.
NOTICEThere has been a classification changeto this document It is the responsibilityof the recipient to promptly remark it toindicate change.
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ADOO1l89
CLASSIFICATION CHANGES
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1965 per Group-4 DoDD 5200.10, 26 Jul 1962
THIS PAGE IS UNCLASSIFIED
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~rmed Services Technicallnformation ngencyDOCUMENT SERVICE CENTER
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UNCLASSIFiED
~IED
SECURITY INFORMATIONAuthority: C. 0. Holloman ADC
By: C. 1'1. Mangum
Initials : (1, Yvl . W'll
Date: 14 Jan1Uj.ry 1953
MONTHLY REPORT
o N
USAF GUIDED MISSILE,
T EST A C f I V I TIE S )/
A T
HOLLOMAN AIR DEVELOPMENT CENTER
HOLLOMAN AIR FORCE BASE
NEW MEXICO
Prepared by 6580th Missile Test Group
This document cont"jy\s infonnation affecting the National D,)fense of theUnited States within .the meaning of the Espionage Laws Tlt.le 18, Sections793 and 7Y4. Its transmission or the revelation of its contents in anymanner to an unauthorized person is prohibited by law.
UNCLASSIFIED
UNCLASSIFIED
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PROJECT MI-1011, Standardization Flights
Air Resupply and Com:r.unications Service Trainees
PROJECT MX-776 o 0
PROJECT MX-I.JB3
PROJECT MX-904
PR0JEC'f MX-()72
PROJECT !'lX-8n 0
PROJECT 0'./-19
PROJECT MX-1277
PROJECT MX-1280
PROJECT MX-1342
PROJECT MI-1496,
PROJECT MX-1594
PROJECT 111-1011, Aerobee Rocket.
DI5TRIBlfI'IOij FOR THIS REPORT . •
o 0 ~"
• •
UNCLASSIFIE
page1 - 2
3 - 6
7 - 8
9 - 10
11 - 12
13 - 14
15 - 16
17 - 18
19 - 20
21 - 22
• • 23 - 24
25 - 26
27 - 28
• • 29 - 31
• END
.~.":~',
UNCLASSIFiED
RE!'ORT FOR TEE MONTH OF DECEMBER 19$'2
PROJECT TITLE: MX-776A & B, XB-63 (Rascal) & X-9 (Shri~e)
CONTRACTOR: Bell Aircraft Corporation, Buffalo. New Yor~
TYPE VEHICLE: Supersonic Air-to-Ground Pilotless Parasite Bomber
STARTING DATE AT HOLLOMAN AIR DEVELOPMENT CENTER: February 1949
ESTIMATED GONPLETION DATE: _J;;.u"'1;;¥yc....:;;1...,95:;.:4"-- , ._
PURPOSE OF PROJECT: 10 develop a supersonic Pilotless Parasite Bor~~r
capable of carrying a 3.000 pound warhead a _
distance of at least 75 nautical miles at Mach Nos.
between 1.5 and 2.5 and at altitudes up to 60,000
feet.
PHASE OF DEVELOPMENT: Phase I - testing power plant, servo system &
guidance system.
REPORTS ISSUED DURING THE MONTH OF DECEMBER WHICH CONCERN THIS PROJECT:
1N~ekly Test Status Report for week ending 2 Dec 52, X-9 Missile No.240B
Power Launch; two B-17(F-BO Rascal Guidance Flights; X-9 Missile
No o 2509~_CaptiyeFlight. Weekly Test Status Report for week ending
9 Dec. 2fd~X~9 Missile No. ·2610. Captive Flight; B..17/F-BO Rascal Gaid->
a~l«}~ !li,ght. Weekly Test Status Report for week ending 16 Dec 52.
weekll_fest Status Report for period 17-30 Dec 52. B-17/F-BO Rascal
GUidan~~ Flights.
Agencies which are not on distribution to receive the above listedreports may apply to the Armed Services Technical Information Agency(ASTIA). In order to receive desired reports from ASTIA, the request~
:Lng i'.gen'.:y should have a definite need for such reports and should bee] jeib1e to receive such infor-l1l&tion o
1
UNCLASSIFIED
.. Ai - -
SECURfTV INFORMATION
Pr£jectMX-776A f Shrike and Project MX-776B. B~63 Rascal
REMARKS
The month of December was one of completely normal operation. marke-i.
by only one incident of more than passing interest"
On 31 December four new buildings were turned over to this project
by A,I ..O, Buildings 874 & 876, the two missile radar check.out
buiJ,p;n&s. are located at the northwest and southwest corners of the
main Bell assembly bUilding~ Building 885 (the North Rascal Check-out
bqi.lding) is locaj.ed across the taxiway :from the Shrike pit, Building
886· (Flight Crew Ready Room) is located at the southeast corner of
Building 885,
2
PROJECT TITLE:
R&P\Rl' FOR THE ~!ONTH OF DECl11BER 19.2g
.::..Pr:..;;,;oj\Le:.;c:.ct:.....:.:J.1~I~-.:.8.:.b)::.i,'--"Ram="""j.:.et..::....cT~e:.c;s;..;t_V_.:;em;=· c;;..;l;;..;e~ ..__.__
CONTRACTOR I Lockheed Al~art Corporation
TYPE VEHICLE: Supersonic R~jet Engine Test Vehic] e
STARTING DATE AT HOLLOMAN AIR DEVELOPMENT CENTER: 5 February 1951
ESTIMATED COMPLErION DATE: .::I.::nd.:.e:..;fi~·.:.n.::i.:.te::.- _
PURPOSE OF PROJECT: To design, fabricate, and test a supersonic ramjet
engine ~est vehicle which will be recovered by parachute.
PHASE OF DEVBLQPMI>NT :_---'P..:.ha=".:;s.::.e..:l::.- . _
REPORTS ISSUED DURING THE MONTH IJF DECEMBER 'NHICH CJNCERN THIS PROJECT:
Weekly Test Status Repor~ for week ending 2 Dec ~2, Main Canopy" Test No. 52,
conducted by .?pecial Parachute Unit. Weekly Test Status Report for week
ending 9 Dec 52, Check-Out and Assembly of TV-6. Weekly Test Status Re
Ro~~_for week ending 16 Dec 52, Main ~DOPY Test No. 53. Weekly Test St~tus
Report jfor period 17-)0 Dec, Ramjet Test V.ehicle No.6 Launching.
Agencie~ which are no~ on distribution to receive the above listed reportsmay apply to the Armed Services Technical Information Agency (AsrIA)" Inorder to receive desired reports from ASTIA, the requesting agency shOUldhave a definite need for such repo-rts and shOUld be eligible to receivesuch infonnation.
1
\ 1.. \ '
Project m:<>883., 1-1, Ramjet Test Vehicle
REMARKS
\. \ \..;: \ ...
...... '\ .
The major activity on this project dUring the month of December
CJncerned the launch of TV-6, This was a test of the IRJ-h3-MA3 28-inch-
diameter ramjet engine which will power the Bomare missile, The Successful
test and recovery of this engine was a major step forward for this projec.t.
The ramjet engine tests conducted by this project to date have indi-
cated three things, First, tr~t this type of test is feasible, Second,
that it is improba~le that a ramjet engine of this size can be designed
and constructed, using all the ramjet knowledge available, which can be
expected to operate With ~ sufficient degree of reliability to be instalied
in an expensive missile system and flown without previous free flight
testing and development. Third, that the recovery feature of this ramjet
test vehicle is valuable not simply as a money saving device, but also as
a substantial aid to the development program in that the recovered engines
can be inspected, post flight tested, modified, and reflown. This is
particularly an advantage when there is an engine malfunc'Cion and some-
thing either goes wrong with telemetering or the malfunction is caused
by something which will not register in telemetering records,
A year ago this project was in the position of having a fewer number
of engine tests programed than the number of vehicles available, Con-
sequently the funds allocated to th.b program were reduced to the point
4
Proj ec t MX~8/jJ 1X-7 1 Raln:>.(j,:.e.:.t_"t_'8:..;S:..;t:...-V.:.8.:.h.:.iC:.:J:..;"8:.:... _
where the activity on this project must be cut back drastically for the
remainder of this fiscal year and until FY-54 funds are released, The
present situation, due to successful recoveries, is that there are vehicles
and engines available but insufficient flmds available to conduct the engine
tests; therefore, the project is not being used at its maximum efficient
rate despite the fact that there is a great deal of ramjet engine research
which remains to be accomplished,
At present two major missile programs (Bomarc and Navajo) rely on
ramjet engines for cruise power, It seems unreaS0nable that so much effort
in time and resources should be expended on the development of other phases
of these programs While so little is put into the flight testing and
development of the ramjets to power them. Certainly there have been large
expenditures for testing facilities to support the ramjet development
program, but it has been demonstrated that ground testing of components ~s
not SUfficient for the design of a reliable ramjet engine,
It is understood that FY-54 funds scheduled for this project probably,
exceed the amount that Cqn be spent in one year and this is gratifYing;
however, the ramjet test pro¥ram will receive a serious setback d~ng the
nine months between now and when FY-54 funds will be made available, 'For the
next nine months this project will ~e capable of operating at three times
the scheduled rate for about twice the cost, Since testing will be done
in 1"Y"" 54 anyway, if the funds were inade availa ble now 9 ",met-hin/( on the
5
Pruject MX-883, r-7, Ramjet Test Vehicle
order of six months could be gained in time. Second, the test contractor,
if expectl8d to reduce expenditures, must necessarily either apply his
experienced personnel to other tasks or lay them off; i11l either case the
majority of these individuals will not be available to this progralll when
it again desires i;o expand. This will probably be the most serious reault
since the effects will be felt even after funds are available and could
cause a longer effective delay than the six 1Il0nths mentioned above.
6
REPORT FOR THE MONTH Oli' DECliMB11l 1952
PROJECT TITLE: MJ(-904, IF-98, Falcon
CONTRACTOR: Hughes Aircraft Company, Culver City, Califon_l...;;i...;;R _
TYPE VEHICLE: Air-to-Air, Supersonic, Target Seeker
STARTIN G DATE AT HOLLOMAN AIR DEVELOPMENT CENTER ;_-=-1...:F...:eb;:.:r...:ua;;;;:.ry~;;:.;19~4::..9.
ESfIMATED COMPLETION DATE: ....:1:;.:.9~57:...- • ,
PURPOSE OF PROJECT: To develop automatic missile annament for interceptor
aircraft which will be capable of destroying enemy
aircraft at any altitude within the operational limit
of the intercept.or wi til a very high kill probability.
PHASE OF DEVELOPMENT: Phase I.III,IV,V,VI.,
REPORrS ISSUED DURING THE MONTH OF DECEMBER WHICH CONCERN THIS PROJECT:
Weekly Test Status Report for week ending 2 Dec 52, Weekly Test Status Re
eort for week ending 9 Dec 52, Radar Scintillation l'1easurement.s, WeeklyI
Test Status Report for week ending 16 Dec 52. Weekly Test Status Report
for period 17-30 Dec 52, PhotOgraphic Study of I-bandRadar Chaff.
Agencies which are not op distribution to receive the above listed reportsmay apply to the Armed Services Technic~l Information Agency (ASTIA). Inorder to receive desired reports from ASTIA, the requesting agency shouldhave a definite need for SllC h reports and should be eligible to receivesuch information.
7
HEHA.RKS
No field tests ..ere conducted at HADG during the period of this rep(lrto
The much needed temporary partitions have finally been constructed in
part of the bay area of the building assigned to this project. This has
cQnvllrt...edothe~t\1 ~el's space into badly needed enclosed rooms for
electronic laboratories and repair sh0fls and a shipping and receiving room
separate frOlll the supply room.
A second missile test laborstory has been outfitted by converting the
conference room into a laboratory. This rool!! Will greatly ill1Mnce the
efficient operation of field test missions with several model GP missiles
to be launched per missioilo Installation of the necec;sary air and hydraulic
lines. wiring, and test equipment has been almost completed. The
installation in the original laboratory of the necessary wiring, piping,
and control valves for a 10,000 PSG nitrogen booster compressor is nearing
completion 0
This addition of new partitions in "the bay area and the second missile
laboratory will satisfy the requirements of the contractor for the next
few months.
W,l'lJHT 1"Ull TW', HdNTl1 I !I.,' I)W;]o;l'!J)Eh J.)~;
PHOJ-C;C'f T.LTLIi: j·lJHm, X(~H--'- ..•..---_•.- .._.- -----_..-----_ __._ - _--_.
TYP]> VEHICLE I Drone Missile_._..._------STARTING DATE AT HOLLUHAN AIR DEVBL0PNENl' CENTER: . }1ay 195.:.-0 _
ESTH1ATE,D COM.PLEITJN DATE:_June_1953
PUIIPOSE OF PHOJECT I The development 0 t', reuotelL con_trolled drone mis-
sile capable 01' si"lUla ~ing "i rcraft performance.
PHASE OF DEVELOPMENT: C:l[Jducting developluent tests of 8 turbojet powered
aircraft for use as a remotely controlled drone missile
REPORTS ISSlJJW DlJRING 'fiE i'llJNTH Ol" DECEl'!BE.n W~CH CJNCERN VIS PROJECT:
Weekly Test Status Heport for week ending 2 Dec 52, Test No.1, High
Altitude. W~~ly Test S.tatus Heport for ;.~cek ending So Dec 52.. 'weekly Test
Status Heport for week ending 16 Dec 52, Two Parachute Tests, Weekly Test
Status !i-eport for per lod 17-30 Dec 52, One Low Altitude Parachute Testo
Agencies which are n.ot on distribution to receive the above listed reportsmay a,lply to the Armed Servlces Technicill InformatLm Agency (ASTrA) 0 Inorder to receive deBired reports from ASTIA, t!1e requesting agency sh·~uld
have a del'inHc,e need hr sllch reports and Bh')llld bE; eligible to receivesuch information.
REMARKS
Three pa.rachute tests were conducted during the month to obtain in-·
formation essential to the design of a recovery system that will handle
thc inCrCDGcd Gpecd, ~ltitudc ~nd weight of the turbojet powcred XQ-l.
Results of these tests indicate that the recovery system under test since
5 November has inherent difficulties. At a conference on 29 December 1952,
at the Radiop1ane Company plant in Van Nuys, California, these difficulties
were discussed by representatives of the HADC Special Parachute Section,
the XQ-l Project Officer lli1d representatives of the contractor. As a
solution to the present problems a load release device has been designed
by Radiop1ane Company. A new test program will be conducted and a
satisfactory sJlution should be arrived at in a minimwn length of time.
10
I"lliPORT FOrt THE d8NTll OF D£CEc113J!:R 19,2
PHLJJECT TITLE: Project NX-U73, XQ~2---'CONTRACTOR: Ryan Aer mautica1 Company
TYPE VEHICLE: Drone Missile
STARTIN G DATE AT HOr.rj1MAN AJR DEV~LOPMENl' CENTER: -'-Jl.p;;;,:'n;.;;·.c::l-=1""9~5..:..0 _
ESTIMATED COMPLETIJN DATE: Standardization, March 1953; Post Stand-
ardizatj. on Test_s..L,_':..:'Ja.:..;r:..:c:..:h::....:::l-"-9::..54-'-- _
PURPOSE OF PROJECT: The development of' a remotely contro.l.led missile
c"pable of simUlating the perl'onnance and maneuvering
characteristics of lllodern jet aircraft,
PHASE OF DEVELOPMENT: To conduct rated power test to demonstrate the
general stability of the target at 0.6 to 0.8 Mach
n~nbers and to determine the operational characteristics
of the control system at .full throttle setting.
REPORTS ISSUED DURING THE MONTH OF DECEMBEH WHICH CONCERN THIS PHOJECT:
Weekly Test Status Report fo r week end ing 2 Dec 52, Free Flight Nc>. u9.
Weekly Test Status Report fo r wee k endillf, 9 nec 52, Free Flight No. 50.
Weekly Test Stat us ll.ep?rt f:Jr week ending 16 Dec 52. Free Flight No. 51.
Weekly Test Status Report for period 17-30 Dec 52, Free Flight No, 52,
Agencies which are mL ~)n tlislribution t~ reeei VB the a'JOVG listed reportsmay apply te the Armed Services T"chnic~J Infor:nation Agency (ASTrA) 0 Inorder to receive desired reports fnm ASTIA) Lhe rerj\J.co"tin., Rgency 3houldhave a definite need for such reports anJ shc)1l1d 'J" eligible to receive:5uch i.nf0rmationo
11
!!oject ~~-873, XQ-2
REMARKS
Preparation of facilities and equipment, which will be used in the
training of personnel from other services in the assembly and operation of
the Q-2 dr,::me, was cQmplctcd during the jllollLh. The training program is
scheduled to start, 5 January 1953, and will continue for a period of
eight weeks, Personnel scheduled to a ttend this school are from ground
forces at Fort Bliss, Army Ordnance at White Sands Proving GNund ,'ind
Air Force personnel from Air r'roving Ground at Eglin Field, Florida.
Delay was encountered in the preparation of the drone to be used
for flight test number 53 because all autopilot components were expended in
flight 52, making it necessary to fabricate a complete set of mounts·and
brackets and to procure neces~ary servos, reference gyro, amplifier and
other components used in the Ryan Minneapolis-Honey,lell aut'opilot system.
12
REPORT FOR THE MONTH OF DECEl1BER 1952
PROJECT TITLEJ__O....;Q:....-.=1;;..9_A...e_r_i_al"-T__a_r~g_et_·_.__--..,. _
CONTRACTORI No.::n;.:e-'- . _
TYPE VEHICLE: Drone Missile
STARTING DATE AT HOLLOMAN AIR DEVELOPMENT CENTERJ__l_j,,;;..;_v.=e·;;;.ffib:.:e-=r...;1;.;;:9",5.=.1 _
ESTIMATED COMPLE:rION D.A1'EI )~O:...::..Jun:::;:;e:...l::::9'_"5:.:::3 _
PURPOSE OF PROJECT:_~his project useS. the sta~dard U';l-19 targ8t as a
vehicle to determine and improve radar response char-
acterist'ics of aerial targets, to evaluate the use of a
video link as a terminal gUi?-,nce faciEty, to test the
use of aerial targets as photo-reconnaissance vehicles,
and to evaluate various autopilct systems: _
PHASE OF DEVEIDPMENT: This project is presen~ly concerned witn preparation~
for radar response tests and video link te&ts.
REPORTS ISSUED DURING THE MONTH OF DECm-IEER WHICH CONCERN THIS PROJECT:
Weekly' Test Status Report for week ending 2 Dec, Flight 668, OQ-19D Ma~
fiedDrone, Weekly Test Status Report for week ending 9 Dec 52, Flight
669, OQ-19D; Flights 670 and 671, OQ-19A, Weekly Test Status Report for
week ending 16 Dec 52, Flights 672,673,674, and 675, OQ-19A. Weekly Test
Status Report for period 17-)0 Dec 52. One Routine Training Flight.
Agencies which are not on distribution to receive tb(; aoove Listed reportsmay apply to the Armed Services Technical Info.mation Agency (ASTIA). Inorder to receive desired reports .t'rvJfl .11.:>1'111, "he requesting 8gency shouldhave a dennite neeCi for such reports and should be eligible to re,ceivesuch infol'lllation, .
13
~rcject uQ-19, Jrone ~lissile
REMARKS
During the month seven prJficiency luaintenance flights and two test
fli((hts were conducted. The proficiency maintenance flights were very
successful. The two test flights were the final two of a series of three
tests to determine the feasibility of launching and flying the heavily
loaded TV-OQ-19. It was shown that this configuration can be launched
and flown successfully.
Radar response tests are being held up as the Instrumentation Section
at HADe does not yet have in operation the equipment required. The TV
tests are awaiting the arrival of engineers and equipment from Wright Air
Development Center on 5 January 1953.
This project moved during the month and is temporarily borrowing
operating space from the XQ-l project. Building 859 is being rehabilitated
for the use of the OQ-19 project.
14
HKP0HT FJR TIlE H0NT!! )!" DliCd1BER lY;,2
PR0JECT TITLE:__MX_-_l_2..:.7..:.7.L,_Ae-t_'_!lQ_s-,p_h_"_r_i_c_S_a_ffi-"p_l_i_rI'-'g _
CONTRACTOH: Northwestern University, Air Farce Cambridge Research Center,
and Hollvman Air Force Base
Unknown
3 Nay 1951
sampling; apparBtus
TYPE VEHICLE: Large diameter plastic ballo-jns carrying atmospheric
EST]}jATi':D COl'LPLl!:TDN DATE:-------------------I
PURPOSE OF PROJECT: To field test atmospheric sampling :nechanisns and to
obtain samples of the at!Dsph8re at 10,000 feet inter-
vals to 100,000 feet to determine the isobpe ratios
of oxygen and nitrogen.
PHASE OF DAV~PMENT: Phase I, one test
REPOIrrS ISSUED DURING THE H0NTH OF DECEMBER ';THIGH CONCERN THIS PROJECT:
Nonll
rI~'I1I
I
15
l'ro,jec1, HX-1277, JltmJspheric Sa'llp1inf,
REMARKS
There are no additional reC;)!llirlen Jatbns or conclusi'Jns at this t ime as
the jJrllcerl ures of this prvj8ct arc fairly standardized, No fi ights were
made tllis InJnth ~ince the ballo,lns on hand for this project have been used
U!J, alld additiollal balloons have not yet been received,
16
REPORT FOR THE MONTH OF DECEPlliER 1952- -PROJECT TITLE: MI..1280, Low Frequency Solar Noise Measurerr,ents
CONTRACTOR: Air Force Cambridge Research Center
TYPE VEHICI.E:--:,N;.:o:::;ne:.... _
STARTING DATE AT HOLLOMAN AIR DEVELOPMENT CENTER: 24 March 1952
:b:S'XlMATlID Wl'll'LF.'TION DATEI_v,;.;'o;,;;.n;,;;.t.;;;in_.u""l""ng"'- _
PURPOSE OF PROJECT: To obtain continuous measurements of Geomagnetic
Fluctuations in the frequency range of 0 to 20
cycles for the purpose of aiding in the prediction,
of Propagation Conditions and the .understanding of
Geomagnetic Phenomena.
PHASE OF DEVELOPMENT: Solar noise disturbances are being recorded on a
continuous 24-hour-a-day, 7-day-a-week basis.
REPoms ISSUED DURING THE hONTH OF DECEMBER WHICH CONCERN THIS PROJECT:
Weekly Test status Reports for weeks ending" Dec, 9 Dec, and 16 Dec 52.
Weekly Test Status Report for period 17-30 ..l(e;;.;c~5,;;;2,;.' _
Agencies which are not on distribution to receive the above listedreports lllll,y apply to the Armed Services Technical Informat;on Agency(ASTIA). In order to receive desired reports from ASTIA, the requesting agency should have a definite need for such reports and should beeligible to receive s~ch information,
17
Proje£.:!: ML1280. Ll?,w !:equency Spur Noise Measurements
REMA.RKS
Disturbances were measured throughout the month with little loss of
data because of equipment failure. Some data were missed during the
·..eek of 22 December 1952 due to a shortage of manpower. Activity con
tinued to be IIquiet II with only the usual diurnal variations being
reqorded. The noise level associated with the equipme?t was decreased
to a very low value this period. As a result, the data being gathered
at this time at'S b.:ltter than any ever recorded at the Holloman Site.
18
REPORT fOR 'mE MONTII Of DJiLEI'lBER 1952
PROJECT T1TL)':: MX-1342 , High Frequency Back-Scatter Tests.-CONTRACTOR: Rome A~r Development Center, Gr~ffis AFB, New York
TYEE VEHICLE: None----------------------------I
STARTING DA'IEAT HOLLOl'!.AN AIR DEVELOPHENT CENTER.__.::.l...:;.J:.,:u:::.ly"--=1"'9.::;;52=-- _
~STlMATED CJJ1PLETION DATE: 30 June 1953
PURPOSE OF PROJECT: a. To detenuine, through the use of back-scatter
measurements, the range and reliability of high frequency
co~uunication systems.
b. To determine, through the use of forward-scatter
measurements, multipath transmissions, pulse distJrtion,
and the height of the re flecttll<; layers of the Lmosphere.
PHASE OF DEVELOP!'1EN~: Routine target returns logged fer nine-hour days at
half-hourly periods on the back-scatter measure:nents only.
llliI'ORTS ISSUED DURING THE MONTH OF DECDlB~.3 ~vHICH CONCgRN THIS PRJJECT:
Weekly Test Status Reports for weeks ending 2 Dec, 9 Dec, and 16 Dec 52.
Weekly Test Status Report for period 17-30 Dec 5?~.
Agencies which are not on distribution to receive the above listed reportsmay apply to the Armed Services Technical Information Agency (AsrIA) 0 Inorder to receive desired reports from ASTIA~ the requesting agency should
.• have a definiL-e need for such reports and should be eligible to receivesuch information.
~ 19
Project MX-1342 High Frequency Back-Scatter
REHARKS
Twenty-four-hour operation of the project continued until 22 December
1952. At that time the project was put on 16-hour operation until the first
of the year. The project will be put on 24-hour operation again the first of
the year.
The data being logged now shows that there is a complete fade-out of
the signal at night, but this fade-out time varies from night to night.
Routine work on the project continued with no notable dii'f' ;ulties.
20
REPORT FOR THE MONTH OF DECEMBER 1952
PROJECT TITLE: MX..1498, Moby Dick
CONTRACTOR:: Air Force CllIilbridge Research Center
TYPE VEHICLE: High Altitude Plastic Balloons
STARTING naTE AT HOLLOMAN AIR DEVELOPMENT GENTER: October 1951
ESTIMATED COMPl.ETJON DATE: Indefinite-------------------PURPOSE OF PROJECT: To study the very high altitude wind fields
PHJ.SE OF DEVELOPMENT: Operational test phase
REPORTS ISSUED DURING THE MONTH OF DECEMBER WICH CONCERN THIS PROJECT:.Weekly Test Status ll.eports for weeks ending 2 Dec~ 9 Dec, and 16 Dec 52
Weekly Test Status Report for period 17-30 Dec 52. Report No. HDT-21:
Summary Report on Pr0,iect Moby Dick, Covered Wagon Balloon Launcher De
velopment and Test Results, 6 Dec 51 to 15 Sep 52. da.ted 12 Dec 52.II
Agencies which are not on distribution to receive the above listedreports may apply to the Armed Services Technical Information Agency(ASTrA). 1t1 order to receive desired reports from ASTU, the requesting agency should have a definite need for such reports and should beeligible to receive such information.
21
!!oject MX~498, Moby Dick
REMA.RKS
=
The Moby Dick crews a.re now at the three locations on the West
C~st where the operational phase is to take place. The three locations
are8 Muroc, California; Vernalis, California; and Tillamook, Oregon.
During the past month, no balloon flights were accomplished. The
members of the crew have been concerned with the preparation of the
sites for the operational phase to follow.
In addition to some balloons, parachutes, batteries, steel shot
ballast and transmitters, two each IIMoby Dick" packages were received
at Edwards a,nd Tillamook. Test IIlquipment was received at Edwards AFB
and at Vernalis NAB.
22
CONTRACTOR: Stanley AviatiJn Corporation
PROJECT TITLE:
REPORT FOR THE M:JNTll OF DECEMBER 19'02
MX-1594, Gopher~-_._-------------
TYPE VEHICLE: Large p1a3tic balloons carrying dummy loads
STAUTllIG DATE AT HOLLOMAN AIR DEVELOPMENT CENTER:_~Jebruary 1952
ESTIMATED OJMPLETION DAT E:__.:U;;.;nk;;;:n.:,;o:.;.w;;;:n~ _
PlffiPOSE OF PROJECT: To conduct detectiJn tests on plastic balloons
PHASE OF DEVJ£LOPMENT: Phase II - To conduct detection and vUlnerability tests.
REPORTS ISSUED DURING THE MONT!f OF DEGEl1BER WHICH CONCmN THIS P1liJJI!CT:
weekly Test Status Report for period 17:30 Dec 52, HADC-621; Dummy Load and
Activated Cut-Down ~stern; HADC-622: DJr!U!ly I:0ad, Ai1-1 Transmit~er and Clock
Activated Cut-Down System.
Ageneie3 whie h are not on distribution to receive the above llsted reportsmay a[Jp.ly tJ the 1'.rnedServices 'fechnical Infomatbn Agency (ASTrA).· Inorder to receive desir~d reports fr'.)!Il ASTIA, the requesting agency shouldhave a definite need for sLCh reports and should be eligible to receive suchinforme.tion.
23
Project j1X-l~59~4~,~Go2P~hex~ ~ ___
REJ1A.RKS
.... ,':to
The aircraft was able to locate the secJnd test vehicle which was
equi[Jped with a radio transmitter and a radar target. The first flight
consisted of only a dummy load and visual contact was not established.
24
REPmT FOR THE MONTH OF DECEMBER 1952
PROJECT TITLE: Air Resupply and Corl1'nunications Service Trainees
CONTRACTOR! . Balloon Sonde Unit, HADG
TYPE VEHIGLEI__N_ot"'--a....PPo.,;1;;..i_c_ab..:;1:;.,.e . _
STARTING DATE AT HOLLOMAN AIR DEVELOPMENT CE:NTF.R; August 19$2---"'---..:..;;.----,-ESrIMATED CCMPLETION DATEI ~I=.nd..:;e~f,::;in,::;i..:t_e~ _
PURPOSE OF PROJECT I On-the-j ob training in balloon inflation anti launching
techniques
PHASE OF DKVELOPME2lTs Phase 1, observation of balloon launching made b~
regular Balloon Sonde Unit crew.
REPORTS ISSUED DURING THE MONTH OF DECEMBER WHICH CONCERN THIS PROJECT:
Weekly Test Status Reports for weeks ending 2 Dec, 9 Dec, and 16 Dec 52.
Weekly Test status Report for period 17-30 Dec 52.
Agencies which are not on distribution to receive the above lioted reportsmay apply to the Anaed Services Technical Information Agency (ASfIA). Inorder to receive desired n3ports from ASTIA, the requesting agency shouldhave a definite need for such reports and should be eligible to receivesuch information.
25
Air Research and COIlllnWlications Service Trainees
REMARKS
The ARCS Trainees have received lectures an balloon history and theory,
and on the Mobr Dick instrumentation. They have been shawn movies of balloon
launchings, with ausociated lectures. The trainees have been present at
each balloon launching by the Balloon Sonde Unit. In addition, under the
guidance of Balloon-Sonde personnel, they have been performlng tests
associated with the investigation of balloon inflating techniques. On 17
Dec 52, 8 officers and 15 airmen completed their training at HADC and re
turned to Mountain Home AFB, Idaho pending further orders.
26
REPORT FOR THE MC:1TH OF DECEMBER 1952
PROJECT TITLE: MX-10ll, Standardization Plastic Balloon Flights
CONTHACTORI:~ooe Island University and Dellver University
TYPE VEHICLE: Large plastic balloons carrying specialized
instrumentation.
STARTING DATE AT HOLLOMAN AIR DEVELOPMENT CENTERI..;I;;,..;;,;Ma:=.y~19:.::5;;:2 _
ESTIMATED CONPLETION DATEI..-.;U;.;;n;;.;;kn;.;;o;;.;;wn:;;;.. _
PURPOSE OF PROJECT: To obtain a value for the solar constant and to
measure daylight luminescence and infrared ab-
sorption.
PHASE OF DEVELOPMENT~ Phase I, field testing of equipment in con
junction with Aerobee HI-lOll (X-B) firings
REPORTS ISSUED DURING THE MONTH OF DECEMBER WHICH CONCERN THIS PROJECT:
'"eakly Test Status Report for week ending 16 Dec 52, HAFB-1l9 and
HAFB-120 Launchings. WeeklYj'est Status Report for period 17-30 Dec 52
HADC-121, Infrared Camera and Instrumentation.
Agencies which are not on distribution to receive the above listedreports may. apply to the Armed Services Technical Information Agency(ASTIA). In order to receive desired reports from ABTU, the requestingagency should have a definite need for such reports and should beeligible to receive such information.
27
E!:~t ~lX-.IOll, Standardization Flights
RE}l.4.RKS
The first balloon night this month, made to measure the sol.aI'
constant for Rhode Island University was succesllful. The second flight
IllQUe was only partially successf\ti as the balloon rose at an un
usually low rate and reached an altitude (about 78,000 feet MSL) below•
that required at sepal."ation. The Denver University flight was not
recovered for three days due to difficulty in obtaining permission t:,
enter the bombing range where impact occurred.
REPCRT FOR THE MONTH OF DECEMBER 1952
PROJECT TITLEs M!-lOll, Aerobee Rocket
CONTRACT'OR3 Oniv6J."sity of Colorado
TYPE VEHICLEs upper Air Test Vehicle
STARTING DATE AT HOLLOON AIR DEVELO.Pt1ENT CEN'l'ERI__A.c..L"",lP,-:u.;..st~1;..94"",9 _
ESTIMATED CGlPLETION DJTEs C;..Q;..n;;.;t..;;;i""nlll;;.;·;,;,;n""g _
PURPOSE OF PROJECT! To carry aloft instrUl1leIJtation desi~d to me~sure the
physical phenomenon and properties of the upper at:~ospher~.
PHASE 01" DEVELOPMENT; Varies for each individual test
REPORTS ISSUED DUlUNG TIlE MONTH OF D:l!CEMBER !'IHICH CONCERN THIS PEOJEGT:
Weekly Test Status Report for >feek ending 2 De':'.. ,)2, Weekly Te~t S,8"[,'L." liepJrt
for week ending 9 Dec 52, Weekly Test Status Report for \'),2"'[( ending 1: Dec
52, USAF Aer-obee No. 33, Missile CM No. 484 Launching. Week!,y Jest c;.2CU.:
Report for period 17-30 Dec 52.
Agencies which are not In distribution t) ~"Cd7t, U;e "O;)Vc L~v,",,,,:·,, ::'c<may apply to the Armed Servic ~~ ';'ec hni Cd 1 £,,1' >r.."l.tim Age,.cy (i\::;L.A). ~'~,l
order to receive desired reports from ASTIA, ;;"'..e re,-!ucstit",~ ~ ',cy o1';.;',;,<,~
have a definite need for such reports ,md sh-lu1.':! be elii~i')i',' "." 'c c~ivp
such information.' ...,
29
UNCLASSIFIED
Project !'lX-lOll, Aerobee ROcket .. _. _
REMARKS
During this period one Aerobee Sounding Rocket was launched. llSAF
Aerobee No. 33 was launched at 1238 hours.. 12 December 1953. The University
of Colorado equipment gave 28 seconds of continuous sun f::lllowing. It is
believed that this is the fir5t time such solar tracking has been successfully
accomplished.
During this launching Dr. Marcus O' Day, Chief, Upper Air Laboratory,
Air Force Cambridge Research Center, discussed the future of the Aerobee
Upper Air program. It appears that the continuation of the Upper Air research
effort on the part of AFCRC is greatly dependent upon successful l1peration of
the next two experimental RTV-A-la rockets. Dr. O'Day feels that tHO
successful projects will save the program.
USAF AerJbee ~o. 33 was the last of the standard 260O-pound thrust
Aerobes Sounding Rockets model RTV-A-l. Future Aerobees will be of the
model RTV-A-la type. Prior to launching upper air instrumentation in this
model, two successful test rockets will De flown. These rockets will carry
instrumentation to monitor portions of the vehicle.
The first test rocket was tentatively scheduled for launching in early
December. Delays have been encountered so that at present launching 13
scheduled for early February 1953.
30
UNCLASSIFIED
UNCLASSIFIED
Project m:-10ll , Aerobee Rocket
Present indications are that the thrust on the mOdel I\TV-A-la wU1 be
reduced to 3000 pounds (nominal hOoo pounds). This should help to reduce
the probability of :t'uture failures due to aerodynamic forces all' heating. A
decrease of 3 miles in zenith altitude has been computed.
31 UNCLASSIFiED
UNCLASSIFiED
DISTRIBUTION FOR THIS Ril'ORT
ADDRESSEE
HeadquartersUni ted State s Air ForceAttn: AFODC(GM)Attn: AFDRDWashington 25, D. C.
Commanding Gene mlAir Research and Development Co~nand
Attn: RDDIOP. O. Box 1395Balt:i.P\ore 3, Maryland
Commanding GeneralWright Air Development CenterAttn! 101mWright-Patterson Air Force BaseDayton, Ohio
COllUnanding GeneralRome Air Develo~ent Ce~ter
Attn! RCRTPG.iftis Air Force BaseRome, New York
Commanding GeneralAir Force Cambridge Research CenterAttn: eRRTAttns CRRKCambridge, Massachusetts
Commanding GeneralAir Force ,SpeciaJ. Weapons CommandAttn:. fMVKirtland Au- Force BaseAlbuquerque, New Maxico
Armed Services Technical Information AgencyDocuments Service CenterU. B. BuildingDayton 2, Ohio
UNCLASSIFIED
con NO.
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USAF GUIDED MISSILE TEST ACTIVITIES
AIR FORCE INST OF TECH WRIGHT-PATTERSON AFB OH
20 MAY 1953
Distribution authorized to U.S. Gov't. agencies and t~eir
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31 may 1956, DoDD 5200.10
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· Rep,r.oduc:e~ by UNCLASSIFIED
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'-.~-_.. _.
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UNCLASSIFIED
HOLLCNAN
AIR DEVELOPMENT CENTER
MONTHLY REPORT
o N
USAF GUIDED MISSILE
T EST ACT I V I TIE S
AT
HOLLOMAN AIR FORCE BASE
NEW MEXICO
REP 0 R T NO. H DT - 113
COP Y NO. 21
APRIL 1953
0-3AA-8S-7":l.;.k;~ I ~,f'()
UNCLASSIFIED
.SECRET
Authority: C. 0.. HollOlll&n.&DC
By: C. M. !lang1llll. Lt. Col., USD'
Date: 20 May 195.3
MONTHLY REPORT
ON
USAF GUIDED MISSILE
TEST ACTIVITIES
AT
HOLLOHAN AIR DEVELOPMENT CENTER
HOLLOHAN AIR FORCE BASE
NEW MEXICO
Prepared by the 6580th Missile Test Group•
a,m, ~~_~ __C. M. MANGUM'Lt. Col., USAFGroup Co!Rander
This doCUlll8nt contains information afrecting the National Defense or thelInited States vithin the lIIIIIU1ing of the Espionage Laws Title 18, Sections19) and 79h. Its translll1esion or the revelation ot its content in anyIIIllM8l' to an unauthorilled parson is prohibited by lav.
SECURITY INFORiVIATIO\'1UNCLASSIFIED
t5"" 3 A-;9- g-0""1:<'~IX!/.'Jit>
TAB L E OF COlVTENTS
II II II II II II II II " II II II II • II .. • • • • • .. • • •
II II II II ell. II II • II II II II II II II II • ~ II II II II
II II " • e e II II II II II II II II II II II • II • II II II II II
2
4
8
10
12
14
16
18
20
22
24
26
28
30
32
34
36
38
40
42
44
Elm
1
3
5
9
11
13
15
17
19
21
23
25
27
29
31
33
35
37
39
41
43
• •
• •
II II II •
II • II II
II II II II • II II II II••
II II II II II II II • II • II II
• • II .. • • .. • • • • • • II • ..
• • .. • • II II II II .. • • • • II ..
II • II • II • • • .. • II • II II • •
II II II II II II II II • II II II II
• • • • • II • • II • • • II .. • • •
• • • • • • • • II .. • .. • .. • • •
" • II II II II • e II OIl • • • II • • • .. • • •
II II II II II II II II II • • II • • • II • .. • • ..
II • " • (I • II II •• II II ••
II • • •
PROJECT E-99 Clus~r Tests • • • •
PROJECT E-123 Gliclil Cluster Tests
PROJECT MI-1601 •••••• • • •
PROJECT MLI664 ••••••
DISTRIBll'1'ION FOR THIS REPORT
PROJ'ECT QIB--61 .. .. • II • • II • II II II II • II • II II II II II II II II • II II
PROJECT ~776B II II II II II II II II II II II II II
PROJECT MI-776. F-80/B-50 Training PrOgrUl ••••••••••••
PROJECr JlJX-BBJ II II II II II II e II II II II oil II II • II II • II .. .. II II II II •
PROJECT n.904 II • II II II II II II II II II II II II II II II II '\ II II • - II II. • II
PROJEC'r XQ-l II II II II II II II II • II II II II II II II II II II II II II II II II • •
PROJEC'.r IQ-2 • II II II II II II '" II ... .. II II II .. II II • II II II • II II II II II
PROJECT OQ-19 •• • • • • • • •
PROJECT HI-lOll• .lerobee Rocket • • • • • • • • • • • •
PROJECT HI-lOll. Standardization Plastic Balloon Flights •••••
PROJECT NO. R-11.4-13. Conductivity Meters ••.••••••••••
PROJECT MI-1280
PROJECT MLl342
PROJECT MI-l450-R
PROJECT MI-1498
PROJECT 5Ch.0
PROJECT E-61 Fuae Tests
REl'ORT FOR '1'HE KlN'l'B OF .HUL 1953
PROJECT Tl1'LEI Q;::.:Y:,:=B..;;;.:61=- _
roNTmCTOR: ~The~..:G~l:::el:.::m:..L:::.!..=:Ma:.:r:.:t1::;;n::.....::CO:::lII~pa=IIll_ _
TYPE VEll:iCLE: ..:D:.,:l"Q..::::.:;ne::.....:;Ki=ss;:;i:,:l:;::e'-- . _
ST.tRTJ.NG o..TE Ii.T HO~N ..IR DEVELOPMENT CENTER: Februaq 1953
July 19$3
i
FURFOSE OF PROJECf: To develop a target drone recovery system, ~sed on
the 1«-771 .Hat4dor Kiss:q.e.
&SF. OF DEVEWft1KNT: ConductitJ; night tests on the recovery system to
_ obtain data on plr<lchute deplrnt, data on the use
ot infi;LtAble landing cushions and da ta concerning
damage to the missile on 1lIIpLct.
REPORTS ISSUED DURlNG HONTH OF~ Wet! COHCE.RH 'l'IUS PllOJECT:
Weekly Test Swtus Report for week ending 7 Apr 53. Weekly Test StatUB
.Report for weeking endilE 14 Apr 53. Special Parachute Test. Weekly Test
Status Report for week ending 21 Jl.pr 53. Weekly Test Status Report for
week ending 284pr S3,QYB-6l No.1 Test.
Agencies which are not on distribution to receive the above listed reports-1 apply to thedrmed Services Technical Into tw. tion Jl.gency (4Sm). Inorder to receive: desired reports rrom 4STlil., the requesting agency shouldhave a definite need for such reports and should be eligible to receivesuch information.
1
SECURITY INFORMATiON
rt\
i
Project QY&.61. Drone ,tissile
REdARKS
The Speci..l Par..chute Section conducted the second test of the 4-foot drag
chute compartment, solenoid and rele.. se latch, installed in a 1000-pound bomb, on
10"pril ; examination of the 35 mm movie films indicated that the 4-foot chute
deployed about 13 seconds after the bomb was dropped, blt broke away approxi
mately 0.04 seconds aftel it blossomed. ReCOVEry of the bomb revealed that the
1/4.inch drag chu1::e cable failed, apparentJ,y- under chute opening load. The drag
chut~ cable "",,'oe used on th!' missile was subseqnentl;r strenghtened by adding a
second 1/4-inch cable in parallel .4i th ~he original one.
Ji dry run WiS conducted on 14 4pril. Prelaunching checks were made and an
F.86- aircraft, serving as a simulated missile, flew the proposed nirht path.
4 change in the control ~stem of the missile, a.s directed by the con
tractor's plant, necessitated a rescheduling of the firing from 16 dpril to 23
April. ~ .. ther delayed the launching one additional day.
IIodific" tions a.nd checks were completed on Q'iB.61 No. I and the missile was
launched, 24 "pril. The launching was s·.lccessful, but the l6-foot parachute bag
emerged prematurely approximately 1.2 seconds after the launching. This in turn
pulled out the 4-foot parachute approxiJIR tel1 2.3 seconds after launching. The
missile crashed after 42 secondeof flight. It did not burn, blt vas a1lllost
totally expended.
Initial preparations are being made for acceler-a tion tests using the '!rack
Test Facility to test the 4-foot and the l6.foot polrachute compartments, and the
deployment of the 4-foot and 16-foot par.chutes.
1
lIEPORl' FOR THE MOHTII OF APRIL 195J
PURPOSE OF PROJECT~ To develop a supersonic Pilotless Parasite Bomber
capable of carrying ta 300-po1lIld warhead a distance of
7S nautical IIliles at lllach nlDllbers bet_en IS and 2 oS I
at altitudes up to &1,000 feet.
PHASi OF IEVELOPi!lIlIT~ 'l'estillg of guidance, servo, and propulsion SystelllS.
REPOJrl'S ISSUED DURDIG THE lIDB'l'B OF~ 'WHICH CONCERN mIS POOJECT:
Waelcly Test Status Report far _ek eDding 7 Jpr 53. lrIeekly Test Status
Report for week ending 14 Apr 53, F-80 SiJIIulated Missile Flighte. weelcly
Test Status Report for veek ending 21 Apr 53, F-80 Sialllated Missile FIiets.
lIeekly Test Status Report for week endiIlg 28 Apr 53, F-80 SiJrnilated Missile
Flights.
Agencies which are not on distributiCill to receive the abaft llsted reportsllIayapply to the .ArJaed 5enices Technical InforlRUon Agency (ASTU). Inordsr to ~~ift desired reports trOll ASTU. the T'equestin« a,:enq shaUdhave a definite need far such reports and should be e1i«ible to recebe suchinforllllltion.
3
•"
REMARKS
TIiilIlre 1Il!lre no msile operations at HollClllllll1 d~ the JlCIlth ot April
1953. 'lhe next. mssile, No. 13, rill arrive at HollClllllll1 on 1 June 1953 and
should be launched 011 or about 10 JulT 1953. Missile lio. 13 will be tbe first
missile incorporat:lJll« all guidance equip88nt and will be one ot the IIOst
important Rascal missiles to be launched at HollClllllll1.
:n1l'hD F-SO lliDulated mssile fiidlte consuting of 22 terJlinal dives
ere coDdncted during this period. The flights were generally successful,
but difficulty WIUI experienced in obta11'rl.n8 a satistactory radar scope pre-
sentation during the la:Jt two flights.
As a rellult of the above fli~tB this Project has requested the base to
:illlprove the North IlIIpact Target area to such an extent that it will he as eas1
to identify as the Tarzan Target. This request was necessary because d1ffi-
culty was experienced in locating the Borth Illpact Point CrOll Aerial Photo
graphs tuen during the 1'-80 tendnal dift.
4
rtEWIH FGit TilE ..Kil;'fh OF "PRiL 1753
PRGJEC'f T.i.'fJ..E.:__...;.;;;:1J.:..'--,-7-,-76"--,(.:..F_-~::..;O:L.I-,-B-~5<.:o,-Pr::..;o:.o;gc;;.ra.;;;m,,,)'-- _
eeNTil..GTOih --=t<;::::J·c:u1=.pmE-=::..:n;;;:t....;f'u=:l'n=is",h:.::e:.:d:...;:.byoL...:Be=l:;l...;...;;.:i::r.;:c.:.ra.::;f::..;t:......;;CO.::;r""p;:,:.c.>•...:;::.du:::;f:.:f.:.:;a:.::l.::;o.>.'__
New York.
F-80 simulated miss!. Ie aircraft; .d-50 director aircraft
SlAnTlNG DATE "T HOLLCJ,;"'N AIR DEVEWPMENT CENTEl(:_--.:J;.::a:.::n=ua=:ry:..r...=l~95o::.3"-- _
E.::,Tl,,1..TED GOtlkLETlGli 1J4TE:_......;.J.;:;ul::.y<-::1"-~5"'4"-- _
P't)!(fOSE OF hiDJ ECT: To esw.blish a'l ..ir Force capability to op::r.<te 'ifld
m;.i., tain 13...63 g:Iid", 'lce e,qui pnen~ln order tha t .uIDC may
accomplish the responsibility of providing oper"'tional
know-how to using cOlllllUnds. Conduct tests or assigned
,·J.-776 Research and Developr!lf'l'lt Program, Ga the r pre-
liminary infoIT'liition which will be applicable to O~~
tional Suitability Testing of the t1I-776B missi Ie.
P!i..SE OF DEVJ:.1UhllJIT:-
Phase 1 - Setting up shops. procuring equipment.
"nct tr.-iRinG of fl1ght ere" personnel for F-80/B-50
aircI'aft.
REPOli.TS iSSUED DLllUiiQ THt i'lO:lTH OF "filiL lo':iiCi: Will-ERN TillS fRQJECT:
Weekly Test Status Reports fo_ weeks ?ndirr 7 "'pr 53. 14 -PI" 53. 21 d.pr 53.
and 28 apr 53.
dgencies whicn are nct on distrirrltion to receive the above listed reports!llly apply to the ",rned SeI'Vices Technical Inr'oImiltion A.gency (ASTld.). Inorder to receive desired reports from liST:u.., the re(l'le sting agency shouldhave a definite need for SJ~h reports and should be eligible to receivesuch information.
s
1
Project ll.I-776 (F-60j8-50 Training Program)
Progress in the F-60/£-50 program has continued to incred,se, particular-
1,- in the procurement of supplies and check-out of the guidance bench sets.
Li ttle or no progress has been made in check-out of the guid4nce equipment
installed in the F.80 and B-50 aircraft for the following reasonSl The '-80aircraft bas not been available to ttl! program during il.pril be~use of main-
terance difficulties; the 8-50 aircraft has been in an out-of-colllllission
status and ViS absent from HollollBn Air Force Base for a five day period to
have the compass swung at Kelly AFB, Texas.
F-BO/B-SO personnel have been tully occupied in the setting-up and check
ing out of the guidance bench sets which precluded cbeck.out of'the ';-SO
equipnent. 'lh~.8..50 at rcrd,f't lolill depart Holloman on or about 4 Hay 1953
for Kirtland 41r Force Jhse where the flight crews will be given additional
training in the OP€Ntion of ttl! airer"n. 1t is estimated ttl! aircraft will
be at Kirtbnd for a period of ten days. It is anticipated, when the B-50
returns to Holloman., that several oriert .. tion flights will be mde in order
for the g'~idi.nce operators to f"miliarhe themselves with the equipment.~"--.
Upon completion of these flights, regular test and training missl.ons will be
scheduled.
Special test equipment has been received from local purchase sources,
Bell Aircraft CorpoNtion, and Base Supply which will permit cOlllplete
6
l'roject .iX-776 (F-bO/.;-50 Training Program)
chE'ck-c~t of <ill guida.nce equipment. lleceipt of this equipment will also
permit rebrn of borrowed e"uipment to P",trick ",FB in July 1953.
He<idGuarters, d.ir lleseach and Development COffi!:l2nd, has disapproved a
frequency allocation requEst. of 65.9 mc which is used to co~nd the F-BO
during me-course and teminal dive. "ction is being td.kEn to have a new
frequency allocated; however, consideraole delay may be encountered in
obtd.ining the crJsWls for tlie ll€ll frequency. Voice cO;1J/Unds could be
used to control the
very undesir_ble.
F-GO durinb the interim period but this method is
I
Correspondence and data pertaining to ~ follolling 16S P~pl.red dur-
ing this period:
1. Technical ...ssi sWnce fro", Eell .. j reraft Corpora. tion for the
F-BO/B-50 Program.
2. R.oq""st for an !.lectronics ;)pdre f"rt.s contrc.ct wi th Bell
"'ircraft Lorpor~tion.
3. Prepuation of the FY 1954 fudget Estimate for the F-BO/B_50
Major Orley B. Laudill nade a trip to MathEr ",ir Force lJ.l5e, Cali-
fomia. for thE p'lrpose of investig«ting all pluSES of motion picture photo-
graphy of rJ.d.. r scopes.
J'litjor 'l'hom-as .E. Sledge rnae a trip to liri;;ht-P"tterson Air Foree Blse,
7
j
Project 1«-776 (F-8ojli-SO Training Program)
Ohio and Bell 4l.ircr<£ft Corporation, &ffalo, New York for the purpose of
coordinating fiscal and deliveq of equipment IIIIiltters.
8
RlPORT FOR THE MONTH OF APRIL 1953
PROJ.&:T TITLEI Project HI-BB3, 1-7, Ramjet Test Vehicle
CONTRACTOR: Lockheed Aircra1't Corporation
TYPE VEHICLE: Supersonic Ramjet Engine Test Vehicle
STARTING DATE AT H01LOMAN AIR DiVELOPKENT Ct.Nl'KR: 5 February 1951
ESTDIATED CilWLEl'IJN DATE:_..:In=d~ef::.:i:.:n:.:i:.:t~e _
PURPOSE OF PROJECT: To design, fabricate, and test a supers.:mic ramjet
engine test vehicle which will be recovered by parachute.
PHiSi OF DEVELOPMENT: Phase I-........;........;--------------------REPORTS ISSI.lED DURING THE M'JNTH OF~ WHICH COOQ;RN TIIIS PROJECT:
Weekly Test Status Report for week ending B Apr 53, Refiight of 'l'V-6 Full
Scale Flight Test No. 10. Weekly Test Status Report for week ending 14 Apr
53, Drag Parachute Test Nj. 31. Weekly Test Status Report for week ending
21 Apr 53. Weekly Test Status Report for week ending 28 Apr 53.
Agencies which are njt jn distributijn t:l receive the a~ove_listed reportsmay ap!lly to the Anued Services Technical Infonnation Agency (ASTIA). Inorder to received desired reports fr:lI:! ASTIA, the requesting agency shouldhave a definite need for such rep:lrts and should be eligible to receivesuch infonnati:ln.
9
I•
~ect HI-883, 1-7, Ramjet Test Vehicle
REMARKS
The ramjet engine test progrllJl1 was c'lntinued during the lIIonth of AprU
with Full Scale Flight Test No. 10 which was the second test of the. Marquardt
Aircraft GolllpaIIJ IBJ-43-H£-3 110. 8901~~. During this test, engine
operation was cOlllpletely satisfactory for 20 seconds. The engine prodUced
something on the order of 9,000 pounds of thrust which is considerab17 aore
thrust than that for which the engine vas designed. At the end 'If this 20-
second peri'ld, two fuel leaks developed in the engine, one in each of two
systelllS suppljing the outer and i.nmlr fuel nO$zle rings. The vehicle and
engipe w,:re damaged by recovery due to high surface winds. However, the
engine was in good enough condition after ~'to conduct a post flight
check; to deteX'llline that the tlach nUllllber control '·\as still on calibration;•
and to discover the two fuel leaks. This test is another exaaIple where
recovery and iDllpectiDn of a night test engine ,S ofpriJlle illlportance.
Without the post flight evideree of the fuel leaks, analysis· o~ the night
would have been hampered by the coincidence of two independent fuel leaks
developing allllost BillIultaneously.
10
I
REPORT FOR Te:£ MONT'] OF APRIL 1753
P1WJECT TITLE: MX-904, FALCJN, GAR-I, XF-'98
CONTRACTORl ilughes Aircraft C~lnpany, Culver City, Califortlia
TYPE VEIIICLEI Air-to-Air Missile
STARTING DATE AT HOLLOMAN AIR DEViLOPM1'NT CENTER: 1 February 19149
ESTIMATED CJMPL1'l'ION !lAT1: Interim Tactical Missile, 1 Jllnuary 1956
PURPOSE OF PROJECT: To develop autvmatic .;lissile ar.nalnent for inter-
ceptor aircraft capable of destroying enemy aircraft at
any altitude within the op"rati;mal li,nit of the inter-
ceptor with a very high kill prooabillty.
PHASE OF D1VELJPj'~NTI Phases I, IIi, IV, and VI
RBPORTS ISSUlill DURING THE MOlfl'H OF APRIL -rHICH CONCERN THIS PROJECT:
Weekly Test StatLis Report for week ending 14 Apr 53, Launching of CP-15,
CP-16, C1'-12, 8fld CP-ll. Weekly Test Status Report for week ending 21 Apr
53, Attenpted Launching of CP-·30, CP-31 j and CP-32, lieekly Test Status
. Report for week E1lding 28 Apr 53, Launching of CP-30, CP-3I, and CP-33.
Agencies which are not onlistributi)n to receive the above listed reportsmay apply to the Anned Services Technical Information Agency (ASTIA). In)rder to receive desired reports from ASTIA, the requesting agency shouldhave a definite need fJr suer. reports and should be eligible to receivesuch inform?tion ..
11
tI
I
Project i1l(-904, FALWN, GAH-l, IF-98
REI1ARKS
During the month of April 12 Model CP missiles were launched. Three
CP missiles were launched at a drone target dispensing countermeasures,
four CP missiles at an APG-3 radar gNuod installation, and five at an air
drone 'target.
No sir;nificcnt conclusions can be sUllllllarized at this ti ",e since
visual observatiuns can ;)ften Os deceiving. Two hits were ;)btained by
the missiles resulting in the loss of one drone. An i'1lportant fact is
that only two drones remain assigned to this project. One present schedule
indicates launching of 10 CP missiles in June against a low altitude, 9 Q'
missiles in July against chaff, and an undetennined number of CP missiles
in October against multiple targets. Requests have been submitted for
additional dr;)nes but there is n;) indication that these will be forth-
coming.
Launciling of 12 :tissUes this month has assisted 1aterial~ in
acquiring data required to further study the tactics required in utilizing
the missile; the li;'litations of the ,,,issile; and tIE success in producing
.nissiles in a production line asse'I1bly.
12
!
!ThroRT FOli '!HE MONTH OF ..PRIL 1953
PliOJ1(,T T.:i. TLE: __-:;X",-Q-...::l:...
CONTllAGTORI ....:Ra=d:::i;:::o..p;:;:l...:.:n.:.,:l!';"....;:Go;:::m"'?l=n"'z...._V.:,.J.::;n"-"N;.:u""z.;:;s.........:Ca=l;.:i:::;.f::;orn:;.:.;:i::;a=-- _
TYPt VEHlCtE: ...:D;.:r...::o.::ne::. Hi ss i1e
ST.dlTING D"TE. <iT HOLLOM.lN AIR DE.V.t..LOhiENT CEN'rER:_.:.;K;::ayo<-::1""9.<:.50.::...... _
ESTli-LiTED COJiPLilT.lON D.. TE:_-=-J~un.:.,:e'-"'19~5"'3'_ _
PUiU'OSE OF PROJEl,;T: The development of a remotely controlled drone missile
capable of simul.lting a ircNft J?!: do n1bnce.
PIilLSE OF DEVELOPNENT: Conducting developllJent tl!";ts of a turboj et powered
aircraft for use as a reJll)tely controlled dron~_
missile.
REPOll.TS ISSUED DLIUNG THE MON'll! OF APRlL liHlGH CONCERN THIS PliOJECTI
Weekl;r Test Sf-tus Report for wet'k ending 7 £pr 53, Flight Test. Drone
No. IS. Flight No. 42. ~ekly Test :it-tus Report for week ending 14 Apr 53.
InforID04tion on .Flight No. 42. Drone No. 15. Weelcly Test Status Report for
week ending 21 .\pr 53. YQ-l Recovery Test Progr.. :n. Weekly Test Status
Report for week ending 28 Apr 53.
4gencies which are not on distribution to receive the above listed reportsmay apply to the 1I.naed ~ervices Technicd InfonnJ.tion Agency (.l.STU). Inorder to :receive desired reports from ...>TlJI., the requesting agene,- shouldhave a definite need for such reports and sho<lld be eligible to receivesuch infomation.
l
Project IQ-l , Drone 14i1lsile
REMARKS
There vas. one night of the Ill-I conducted on 3 April 1953. '!his night
liaS generally unsuccessful. The drone climbed continuollllly despite full
down dev.tor signal. Indications are th.t tb! elevator servo does not have
sufficient torque output to fly the turbojet version of the IQ-l. The re
covery system also failed on this night, and 1he drone liaS destroyed. This
tailure vas traced to two delay squibs failing to continue burning after
once baving been ignited. Tests are being conducted by the contractor to
determine the reason for the squib failure and to t4ke corrective action.
Tests were continued on the lQ-l recovery STstem.
Several attelllpts were'JIl;lde to tlT the air-to-air controlled night dis
cussed in previous reports. These attelllpts were all unsuccessful because
the 12-inch pulsejet ellgine would not continue running,atter Iliving been
started, during pre-launching checks.
14
,,L~
REPORT FOR THE MJNTH JF APRIL 19~3
PROJECT TITU:_..:;I:.;:Q'-'-2'" _
CON'l'BACl'CR: Ryan Aeronautical Cumpany
TIPE VEflIC!E: Drone Jtissile
srJRTING DATE AT HOLLOMAN Am DEVELOI1llitn CENTER:__A;;;;<p<.:r..:;i;::I....;1;::9.:;.50..:- _
EsrIHATED COMPLETION DATE: Standardization..Hareh 1953; Post standardization
Tests, March 1954.
PUIlPOOE OF POOJECT: The development of a remotely controlled drcme missile
capable of simulating the perfomance and manelNenng
characteristics of modem jet aircraft.
PHASE OF DEVELOPMENT: To conduct rated power test to demonstrate the•
general stability of the target at 0.6 to 0.8 Mach numbers
and to detennine the operational characteristics of the
control system at full throttle setting.
REPORTS ISSUED DLRING THE MONTH OF APRll. WHICH CCfiCERN TlUS ffiOJECl':
Weeki., Test Stat.us Report f-:>r week ending 7 Apr 53. Weekly~ Test Status Re
port for week ending 14 Apr 53, Flight No. 60. Weekly Test Status Report
for week ending 2l A.er 53, Flight No. 610 iieekly Test status Report for,
week ending 28 Apr 53.
Agencies which are not on distribution to receive the above listed reportsmay app~' to the Anned Services Technical Information Agency (ASTIA). Inorder to receive desired reports from ASTrA, the requesting agency should!lave a definite need for such reports and should be eligible to receivesuch information.
15
I
~ect JIQ-2
REMARKS
On night nlllllber 61, conducted 17 April, the lII8.in parachute separated
from the drone at parachute deployment. This preuture releas~ vas traced to
a sheared safety p:l,p. in the ground release zechanism. The safety pin is
normally sheared by the firing of a squib which is actuated when the c:lr0lUll
cootacts the ground. Because of inadequate depth clearance in the parachute
release unit and the longer squib presently Used, the squib had sheared the
alUlllinUIJI safety pin when the ground release lIIechan:l.811 vas assembled. It is
believed that a siailar pr81118.ture parachute release, vbich occurred on llight
nUillber 52, llII!ly ha_ been cauaed by this same condition.
Ryan Aeronautical ColllplUly and Continental Aviation and Engineering
Corporation personnel are continuing an investigation of the YJ-6C) engine
air inlet duct problem. Several engine rllls have been made on the ground
using the original Ryan designed air inlet, a Continental designed inlet,
and a new Ryan design •. Air inlet pressures, exhaust temperatures and engine
rpII 1IIIlre taken on each engine run. Flight testing of modified and new air
inlet designs vill be conducted during MaT.
Five 1Q-2 c:IroDe·lllissiles have been shipped to the Jlavy in cOllPliance"".
With a letter frQll Wright Air Developllent Center.
16
REPORT FOR THE MONTH OF APRIL 1953
PROJECT TITLEs ~-19 Drone Missile
mNTRACTOR: None-="'---------------------TYfE VEHICLE: Drone Missile
STARTING DATE AT HOLLOMAN AIR DEVELOPMENT CENTERs__N_o_v_e_mbe-'-r-'1"'-9..:;.Sl."'-- _
ESTIMATED OJMPLETION DATEI__-=30:;.;;....J:..un;;:.o.:.e...:l:;:c9""53"-- _
PlIU'OSE OF PflOJEnT: This project uses the standard OQ-19 drone as a vehicle
to determine and improve radar response character~stics
of drone missiles, to evaluate the use of a video link as
a terminal guidance facility, to test the use of drone
missiles as photo-reconnaissance vehicles, and to evaluate
various aut3pilot. systems.
PHASE OF DtVELOPMENT: This project is presently concerned with radar re-
sponse tests,control system components tests and A-7
catapult launchings to obtain catapult data in connection
with a new cast aluminum rocket car and MJEl JATO.
REPOOTS ISSUED DURING TIlE MONTH OF~ WHICH CONCERN THIS PROJE.::T:
Weekly Test Status Report for week ending 7 Apr 53, Flight No. 6970 Weekly
, Test Status Report for week ending 14 Apr 53. Flight No. 699. Weekly Test
Status Report' for wek ending 21 Apr 53. Weekly Test Status Report for week
ending 28 Apr 53, Flight No. 700.
Agencies which are not .)n distribution to receive the above listed reportsmay apply to the Amed Services Technical Information Agency (ASTIA). Inorder to receive desired report.s from ASTIA, the requesting agency shouldhave a definite need for such ~ports and should be eligible to receivesuch information.
17
l
i
~ect *19, Drone Hissile
REMARKS
The first catapult launching test, using the new cast al1llJlinUlll rocket
car with a type M2 JATO unit, was conducted thislllonth. This la1lllching was
successful except that there is need for vertical spacing adjustment between
the top rol1~ wheels and the bottom roller wheel on the rocket car, since
the plunger ram on the rocket car did not center into the snubber cylinder
after the firing but scraped the top side of the snubber cylinder. The
plunger ram centered into the snubber cylinder before tile firing.
" second test scheduled for the SIllllB day was cancelled because another
project required the range. Additional catapult la1lllChing tests were not
conducted this month because of higher priority tests using the same range
area and a reallocation of storage buildings and subsequent lIIoving by this
activity.
During the month two proficiency maintenance flights were flown and one
d8lllonstration flight lias :ll0lfl1 for representatives frQIII the Air War College
and the Universi~ of Hichigan.
A dUllllllY drone is being prepared for 10-7 catapult launching tests using
the new cast aluminUlll rocket car with M.3Kl JATO units. The weight of the
d\lllllllY drone can be varied from 300 to 400 pounds.
Tel8Jlletry equipment is being installed in an OQ-l9D Drone in preparation
for instrumented flight tests of the SUllllllers qyToscope Company model 122
Oyro-Servo.
18
REPORT FOR THE MJNTH OF APRIL 1953
PROJECT TITLEI MX:-IOll, Aerobee Rocket
CONTRACTOOI Air Force Cambridge Research Center - United states Air Force
TYfE VEHICI.J>I Upper Air Test Vehicle
STARTING DATE AT HOLLJMAN AIR DEV.&LO.PMENT CENTER: August 1949
ESTIMATIill COHI'LIiTION DATEI__.:::;C.:;;Jn::.;t;.:in=ui:;;n:5ig'-- _
PURPOSE OF PROJECTI To cat'ry aloft instrumentation designed to measure the
Ehysical phenomenon and pNperties of the upper atmollphere.
PHASE OF DEmOPMillITI Varies for each individual test
IlEPORTS lSSUED DURING THE MONTH OF~ WHIm CONCERN THIS PROJECTI
Weekly Test Status Report for week ending 7 Apr 53. Weekly Test Status Re
port for week ending 14 Apr 53, Launching of USAF Aerobee No. 35, Missile
OM lb.• 524. Weekly Test Status Report for week ending 21 Apr 53. Weekly
Test Status Report for week ending 28 Apr 53, Recovery of USAF Aerobee No. 35.
Agencies which are not on distribution to receive the above listed reportllmay apply to the Anned Services Technical Information' Agency (ASTIA). Inorder to receive dellired reports from ASrIA, the requesting agency should·have a definite need for such reports and should be ~ligible to receivesuch informa~i~n.
\
19
JL-----------
i.
~ect !!X-lOll. Aerobee Rocket
REMARKS
During the latter part or )fa1, it 11 planned to tire two Aerobee,
rockets, 0118 day apart, as II study ot sky brightness. This bas never been
acc'anpllshed at BollClllllll Air Force Base.
USAF Aerobee No. 35, the second test rocket, vas considered a euecess.
20
REPCliT FOR THE MONTH OF APRIL 1953
PROJiXlT TITLE: MI-IOll, Standardization Plastic Balloon Flights
CONTRAcrOR: Rhode Island University and Denver University
•TYPE vmICLE: Large plastic balloons carrying specialized inst~tation_
STARTING DATE AT HOLWMAN AIR DEVELOPMENT CENTERI_..::l...:Ha:=LY...:l::::9~S2~ _
ESTIMATED COMi'IJl,TlOO DATE:,--:U::::n::::kn~own= _
PURPOSE OF PRUJiXlTI To obtain a value for too solar c"nstant and to measure
daylight luminescence and infrared absorption.
PHASE OF DEVELOPMENT: Phase II Field testing of equi!-¥llent in conjunction
with Aerobee MI-lOll, (1-8) firings.
REPORl'S ISSUED DURING THE IDNTH OF APRIL WHICH CONCERN THIS PROJECT:
None
21
\i
•
Project HI-lOll, Standardization .P'llghtl5
REMARKS
110 tests lIere coillduetedduring the purled COftred b.r this report.•
22
REPORT :rna TIlE MONTH OF APRIL 1953
PROJECT TITLEs Project No. R-1l4-l3, Conductivity Meters
CONTRACTORs Air ForceCubridge Research Dsnter and HollOllllUl Air Force Base
TIPE VmmLEs Large diaJ1leter plastic balloon
STARTING DATE AT HOLLOMAN AIR DEVELOPMENT CENTER: April 1953
ESTIMATED COMPLETION DATE:_...:Unkn=:.:O..:;:Vll=-- _
PURPOSE OF PIDJliX:T: To flight test the balloon_borne air conductivity
meter and to obtain data on atmospheric conductivity
in the stratosphere.
PHASE OF DEVE1OP!'IENTI_..:P.::ha=s:;.:e~J _
REPORrS ISSum DURING THE MONTH OF APRIL WHICH CONamN THIS PROJECT:
liIone
23
•
,.•,
REMARKS
501118 d1f.f1culty was enc.>untered wilen pl.nniQg the initial night tor
tll1a. program. The QllD receiver to be 118ed .for re~i"ViDg te1elletered data
lias ~Jllstant souroe of tl'Duble. For this reason, the mght had to be
dela1ed until the equipllent was in a \oIOrkable condi1o:ion••
It WIlS agreed tbat problellllS of this nature could be overcOllle by,
shipping the apparat us to Holloman Air Force Base for ea~h flight where,check-out operations could be acc~plished by members of the BalloOl1 Sonde
Unit. In this lIay, the flights can be perfol1lled without pressure of dlll8
element and would eliminate trips to HollOlllan Air Force Base, for each
flight, by the contractors.
24
i
REPORr FOR THE MONTH OF APRIL 1953
PROJFIIT TITLEI HI-1280, Low Frequency Solar Noiee Measurements
CONTlllCTClRI Air Force Cambridge Research center
TYPE VillICLis,_......:N:;.:Olle=' _
STARTING DATE AT HOLLOMAN AIR DEVELOPMENT CENTER: 24 Karch 19,2
Esr I!'lATED COMPLETION DATEI_..:C:.:;o.:;nt;;.:in=IU::;'n:::sgL-. _
PURPOSE OF PROJECTI To obtain continuous measurements of geomagnetic
fluctuations in the frequerx:y range of 0 to 20 cycles for
the purpose of aiding in the prediction of propagation,
conditions and the understanding of geomagnetic phenomena.
PIIASIl: OF DE1/ll;LOPMENT: Solar noise disturbances are being recorded on a
continuous 24-hour-a-day, 7-day-a-week baeill.
REPORTS ISSUED DURING THE MVNTH OF !f!!!.!: WHICH CONCERN THIS PROJECT:
Weekly Test Status Reports for weeks ending 7 Apr 53, 14 Apr 53, 21 Apr 53,
and 28 Apr 53.
Agencies which are not on distribution to receive tbe above listed reportsmay apply to the Armed Services Technical Infomation Agency (ASTIA). Inorder to receive desired reports from ASTIA, the requesting agency shouldhave a definite need for such reports and should be eligible to receivesuch information.
II
I
!!£.1ect 1£[-1280, Low Frequency Solar 1/0121e KeaenAr6lll811:t.21
REMARKS
Solar noise recording continued during the 1Il0nth without int1lXTllption.
A lIIiIIor lIIechanical failure occurred ill the clock mechaniSlll resulting in lou
ot time marks on' the recoll'd. 10 data "ret lost.
26
Im'CRT FOR THE Wt;rH OF APRIL 1953
PROJECT TITlEl MI-l)42, High Frequency Back-Scatter Tests
C<lHTIi&CT(Jt: Air Force CCIllIbridge Besearch Center
TYPE VEHICLEI_.::.Iti:.;:Q:::ne=-- _
Sl'ARTING DATE AT HOLLUMAN AJR DEVEW~T CEllI'm~ 1...;;J_ul...y~1""95_2 _
ESTL'!ATID CJHPLm'ION DATEI_--=C:.;o;::n..:;tJ.::;·n;;.:u::;o.;;;us=-- _
PtRPOOE OF PROJll:T: a. To deter:nine, through the use of back-scatter
measuremente, the range and reliability of high frequency
communication ~stems.
b. To detenoine, through the use of forward-scatter
measurements, multipath transmissions, pulse distortion,
and the height of the reflection layers of the ionosphere.
PHASE OF lEVELOPHENTI Routine target returns were lOgged 24 hours a day
at half hourly periods during most of the month. Start
ing 27 April 1953, routine target returns were logged
16 hours a day at half hourly periods.
!P'ORTS ISSUED DURING THE MONTH OF AHUL IIHICH CONCERN THIS PlDJECT:
Weekly Test Status Reports for weeks ending 7 Apr 53, III Apr 53, 21 Apr
53, and 28 Apr 53.
Agencies which are not on distribution to receive the above listed reportsllaY apply to the Armed Services Technical Information Agency (ASTIA). Inorder to receive desired reports from AsrIA, the requesting agency shouldhave a definite need for such reports and should be eligible to receivesuch infoI'lllation.
27
~ect Kl-IJ42, High Frequ8nCl,Back-Scatter
REMARKS
The project operated on a 2ll-hour, i'ive-day-a-1l8ek baa1e untU 27
April 195.3. On that date the project W88 cut back to a 16-hO\U', .five
day-a-1I8elc basis. During the entire tiae the project was aD 24-OOur
operation, no signal return was received between the hours of 2200
and 06.30. Tberei'ON, it 111 bel1eftCl that l6-hour operation of
tr.e project will be sufficient to observe fade-out and fade-in of the
signal return, and no data wUl be lost.
The plate supply transformer of the transmitter burned out during
the first week of the month. Thr transmitter went back on the air using
a substitute transformer setup. A new tranafonner has been ordered,
but has not been received.
28
REl'ORT FOR THE MCilTH OF APRIL 1953
PROJF.Cr TITLE: HI-1450R, Physiology )f 11.ocket Flight
CONTBACTOR, Space Eiol.)gy Field Laboratory, H!FB
TYPE V,iHICLE, High Altitude nastie Balloon
STARTING DAT.Ii AT HJ1LOtWI AIR DEVlil.\)PME~jT CMER:_,;;;;Ma~y-=.:19:.:::50.:;...- _
~IMATED COMPLFJ:ION DATE'_--:;;I...;.nd;;;..e;..;f;.;;;i.;..Ill;;..·te'-'- _
PURPOSE OF PROJECTz To study the effects of temperature, pre.'Ulure, and
eolllllic radiation on living !!pecilllens at high altitudes.
PHASE OF DEVELO.I'KI!:N'r: Phase II: Use)f plastic balloons as vehicles for
exposure of the specimens.
REPOOTS ISSUED DUIUNG THE MONTH OFI~RIL WHICH CONCElIIl THIS PROJiX:T:
'weekly Test Status Report for week ending 7 Apr 53. Weekly Test Status
Report for ;oeek ending 14 Apr 53, HAFB-l37 and HAFB-138 Launchings.
Weekly Test Status Report for week ending 21 Apr 53. Ueekly Test Status
Report for week ending 28 Apr 53, HAFB-l39 Launching.
Agencies which are not on distribut::';;n to receive the above listed reportsmay apply to the Armed Services Technical Iufor.nation Agency (ASTIA). Inoru"r to receive desired reports fram ASTIA, the requesting agency shouldhave a definite need for such reports and should be eligible to receivesuch information.
29
1
L
f!:2.1ect Ml-J.45OR, Physiology of Rocket Flight
REMARKS
Due to the loss of Flight IIUB-139, the Space Biology li'ield Lab, has
aSlllllll8d all responsibility for tracld.rig and recoyer,y. It is thought. tbat
better coordination can be accOlllplisbad in this way.
In order to comply with the test directive concerning the manned
balloon project, it will be necessary to receive the requested supplies as
soon as possible. Unless these supplies (to be iVnished by Wright Air
Development Center) are furnished within 30 days, an amendment to the
directive will be necessary.
30
REPORT FOR THE MONTH OF APRIL 1953
PRO,:F..GT TITLE: M!-1490, Hoby Dick
CONTRACTOR: Air Force ClJIlbridge llesearch Center
TIPE VllHIC!.E: High Altitude Plastic Balloons
Sl'ARTING DATE AT HJLLCmN AIR DEVELOPK.bNT C.IlNT.ER:_-:;.Oc;:.;t;.;:o.=.be;:;.:r:....:;;1.:.;951=- _.. .......
ESTII'.ATlID c:JMPLETION DATE: Indefinite--=====---------------PURPOSE OF PROJECT: To study the very high altitude wind fields
PHASE OF DEVELOPMENT: Operational test phase
REPCIl.TS ISSUED DURING THE MONTH OF APRIL WHICH CCllCERN THIS PROJECT:
Weekly Test Status Reports for weeks ending 7 Apr 53, 14 Apr 53, 21 Apr 53,
and 28 Apr 53.
Agencies Which are not on distribution to receive the above listed reportsmay apply to the Armed Services Technical Infonnation Agency (ASTIA). Inorder to receive desired reports from ASTIA, the requesting agency shouldhave a definite need for such reports and should be eligible to receivesuch information.
31
~ect HI-1498, Holly Dick
REMARKS
Progress is being lllade towards the establish!llent of two new Hoby
Dick sites. Two new ·covered wagon· launchers are near cQlpletion and
will undergo testa at Hol.J.oman Air Force Baae prior to shipment to the
l'llIW sitlls. H:!-ecellaDllot.8 supplies have been requil!litioned to outfit the
new sites and supplelllent the old sites.
Recovered packages are continuing to arrive at Holloman Air Force
Baslll.
)2
RU'ORT FOR ThE MONTH OF APRIL 1953
PROJECT TITLSI 504.0 Sleighrid" ;,eries II and III.
CONTRACTOR: Sandia Corporation, Albuquerque, New Mexico
TIPE VEHICLEI......;:S"'l:.;:.ed-=- _
STARTING DATE AT HOLLOMAN Am DlWELOPMENT CENTER: January 1953
F.STIKATW COHPLKTliJN DATE:_..;;.J...;;un:.;:.e;;....:::1.:..:95::.::3'-- ---:.:-- _
PURPOSE OF PROJECTI To conduct bpact tests on S2rdia classified units.
PHASE OF DEVELOPMENT: Sleighride Series II; sled impact test with the
special Ullit mounted on an nAn frame which straddles
the track approximately 2,000 feet from tl~ south
firing point.
Sleighride Series III; impact test on sled mounted
components at high velocities. The sled impacts a
concrete or wood oarrier placed 15 feet off the end
of the track.
REPORl'S ISSUED DURTI>G TfIE MONTH OF APRIL WIIICH CONQ.'RN THIS PROJECT:
None
33
JL..--- _
,~
•, "
504.0 Sleighride Series II and III
REMARKS
Sleighride tests proceeded on schedule and gave tavorable results
during the month.
34
REPOm FOR THE HONTH OF APRIL 1953
PROJrm TlTIJ,;s E-6,.;:::l..:Fus:..=:::e..:T:.:e;=:s.;;.t _
CONTRACT<lh Arll\Y themical Center, Camp Detrich, Kal}'land
TYPE V»lICL&. Small (4 pounds or less) clusterable bomb
ST.lRTDIG DATE AT HOLI.OMAN Am DEVEUlPMENT CENTERs_-:.:.Nov~e.;;;mbe~r-""19:.;:5:=2 _
ESTIMATED COMPLErION DATE:_:=Sep=..;t:.:;eDI:=;b:..:;e:;;.r....;1::,:9;.::;5.::.3 _
PllRPOSE OF PROJECl's To determine proper anling and functioning of the
E-61 Fu~e.
PHASE 01' DJ!.VEL(JPMENT: Phase I_.:.==--"----------------llEPCIl.TS ISSllED DURIN G TIlE KJlITH OF APRIL WHICH coomm THIS PROJ1iCT:
Weekly Test Status Report for week ending 21 Apr 53, E-6lR4 Bomb Test.
Agencies which are not on distribution to receive the above listed reportsmay apply to the Armed Services Technical Info:rmation Agency (ASTIA). Inorder to receive desired reports from. ASTIA, the requesting agency shouldhave a definite need for such reports and should be eligible to receivesuch information.
35
j-------------------
l
~ect W1 lPuse Test
REMARKS
01115 April 19.53. 100 B-6lJ14 bOlllbs were dropped .tr0lll an L-19 type air-
cran. !roll an a!tit_ ot 10.000 teet DcmI the terrain. Pral1miMl)' infol'
ution. in the form of trends, was expected to facilitate in the design of
the more cOlllpl'8heDsive test and to determine the operational characteristics
of the several type fuses lIhen dropped on the &-6lR4 baRb with fins. !be
above tests lIIare considered satisfactol)' by p&rsonne1 frllll the Army Chemical
Center and they stated that considerable improVBllem was realized over
previous tests perfo:med.
I
36
j'------------------~~-
1
REroHT FOR THE MON'IH OF APRIL 1953
PROJECT TlTLE.:__--=E..~9L9..:Cl=us::.;te::=r_T:.:e:.::s~t"'_s _
OONTE4C'IDR: -=Ch=e=.:IIIl.=·:;;:ca=l_CO=rp&=.s-'Ili-=·;.::o=lo~g"'i:.;ca=I_La_=bo=-ra~to=rie'=~s_=an=d_A;,;;;rtho-=;;;.::u~r_.D...:.:....._
Little Inc•• Culbridge. Massachusetts.
TYPE VElUCLE: ....::Cl;:;:u:.::s~te"'r:....::Bo::::m::.:b::-- _
Sr...RfiNG ll.;.'l}; AT HOLW:wI .ill DEVE.WPHENT CENTER: 10 March 1953
ES'I'l&TED OOHPLETION DU'EI_....:::.15~Se-"'p<:.;te=lIbe=r...;1='9:...::5.:<.3 _
fURPOSi OF PROJECT: To ev"lu.tte the subject lIII1lIitions to determine if
they stisfactorill meet the applicable military
cmracteristics and are ready to be subnitted to Air
Proving Ground CoJlllllilnd for operational suitability
tests,
1'!IIl.sr. OF DEVELOPMENT: Phases 1 through VI of AFR:....::;80-.;:...:1h=-- _
REPORTS 1SSlJED DURlIlG TIlE MON'IH OF 4PRlL WIlla1 CONCERN 'IHlS PIlOJECT:
None
37
Project &..92 CllUlter bill
REMAaKS
There -ll!..J!O ~~l.!s!l~!~ for th!s. progralD du~ the 1IIOIIt.h of
April. TIle next teats 101111 be conducted during the _ths at J~~a~.• • • I
and Septeillber l'hen approxipteq.lQ.~ abe 101111. be dropped. Extensive
dUiage to the stabilizing fins ¥IS experienced in the first seven bombs
dropped. Ten boJabs were originally schechled for testing rot because of
the eXtensive dama.ge to 1he stabilizing fins the test program at HADe was
d1scontinu~
"
38
REPORT FOR THE MOHTII OF !PlUL 1923
PROJECT TITLE: Test of 1-123 Glide ClUBter
COllTBACTOlh Chemical Corps, Frederick, Maryland and Aircraft ArIIaMnts,
Inc••.lBaJ.t1Jlore 15. fagland.(Contractors to the CbelIical Corp!)
TIPE VEHICLE: Deviation Cluster BOIIlb ..STARTING DATE AT HOI.I.OMAll AIR DEVELOPMENT CEMTER: 10 April 1953
ESTIMATED COMPLETIOH DATE:_:::lS~Jun=e....:l:::9..::.53::..- _
PURPOSE OF PROJECT: To obtain informtiOll on the free-night perforu.nce
and tra~ectory of the cluster during the launch froll
the carrier aircraft and durine; the helical glide.
PHASS OF DEVELOPKEHT=__Pha;;,;;;;.;.;,.se"--I _
REPORTS ISSUED DUIillfG THE MONTI! OF~ WHICH CONCEllH THIS PROJECT:
Weekly Test Status Report for week eooing 21 Apr 53, &-123 Cluster BaRb Test,
Veekl,y Test Status Report for week ending 28 4pr 53. &-123 Cluster Baab Test
10. 2
Agencies 1IIhi.ch are not on distribution to receive the above listed reportsDlayapply to the Armed Services Technical Information Agency (45TU). Inorder to receive desired reports frOll! 45TU. the requesting agency shouldhave a definite need for such reports and should be eligible to receive suchinfol"llBt:l.on.
39
•
!!:2.1ect 1-123 Cluater BoaJb
REMARKS
Tblt 1-123 is a Glide ClU8ter .8oJW vlUck "dB dlllS1Ined to aiTlIl a two 'and
one-balf lIdle deviation to IIlitbllr side of t,Q1Il l1ae of fiillat of tbe carry1111:,
aircraft froll an altitude ot 30,000 [ ..t. lour Clutel's have been dropped
at HoUONn Air Development Center on the follow.iJl& dates: 20 April, 27 Apl'il j
29 April, and l.1, respectiftl;y. The first clutel' iBpacted approxiately
two and OIlNl-Aalt Mlle. south of tbIl ..\ircratt Aeadi.nl. and cOlllPleted a elide
path to t:Illl left of the aircraft -diIII: as planned. ThIll second cluster
operattld u plann~ for appraxilllatel;y 30 llecoDd8 alld then started to spiral.
Thill clutei' iIIlpacted approxilllatel1 OM Gd _-halt 1I1l.. south of the air
craft f'llght path. TU third clutei' started to spiral imediately upon
leaving the carrier aircraft, at a rate of approxilla.tely five to six revolu
tions per second, aDd contiDlllIId to elo so Il:I1til iJlpact. The clWlter iJlpacted
approxilllatelJ one lIIile IlOUth and _ JI1le ealllt of Tula Peak. The fourth
clWlter executed a right turn instead of a left turn as planned, and illlp&cted
in tile vicinity of 'l'ula Peak.
40
.,
REPORT FOR THE MONTH OF APRIL 1923
PROJECT TITlIr.....:;MI-=l:;:;60.::;l=-- _
COJITRACTORr Cornell Aeronautical Laboratory. Inc.'
TIPB mICLEr A1r-to-A1r Hiosile
S'l'AR'l'INO D.l'1'l A.T HOI.I.<JWI AIR DEVELOPMENT CUTER, Februarll9!i3
ISTIKl'BD COMPLETION DA.Tlh__J..;;;ul;;ly~195=4 _
PllRPOOI OF PROJECT: To dt.termine the feasibUity of Jet Vane Launching
Control Spte1llS tor boJUiler launched air-to-air
missiles and to obtain design and pertonance data for
turther develoeent ot such Jet Vane Control 5pteJm.
PIlASI OF DEVELOHlEJlT r Phase I, Si.IlIple trajectory ot lidssUe &0lIl tixed
launcher. dllll!llj1 IllissUe lamebes fro. 1IO!ing sled,
and mesUe launches trOlll JIOving sled with pro-
grUliled turns through 9(lO or less.
REPORTS lSSmD DUIiIIIG THE MONTH OF A.PRIL WHIaI CONCERH THIS PROJECh-/loDS.
41-
II Project MX.-1601
,:,~- !!
LYe U "C; ~ ~.". ~
REMARKS
•
•J _
REPORT fOR TIlE MONTH OF APRIL 19$3
PIlO.JKCT TITLE: m::-l664, Cluster Bombs
CONTRACT<lh Cbellical Corp! - Copizant "encl-U' ArlIaJI8nt. center. 1«& .mrTYPK VEHIClE: Cluster BOIIbs: ~103, 1-115. and 1-89 cluster••
STARTING DATE AT HOLL<JW{ AIR lEVELOFMEll'l' CEN'lER: 31 March 1953
ESTIMATED COMPLETION UATE:_.;;;:15'-Ma;;;gy_l_9..:;.53"-- _
PUllPOSE OF PROJECT: To evaluate the perfol'lla11ce of a new family of chellical
bombs! including a .ulti-purpose cluster adapter and
and several unit bombs desi«ned to disselllinate various
chellical agents.
PlUSE OF lEVEWPMEHT:--::Pb"";,;;;;as~e;...::.I _
REPORTS ISSUED DURII«l TIlE MOllTH OF APRIL WHICH CONCERN THIS PROJECT:
Weekly Test Status Il8port for week ending 21 Apr 53. Test of Four E-ll5
Cluster Baabs. Weekll Test Status Il8port fer _k ending 28 Apr 53.
Agencies which are not on distribution to receive the above listed reportsllay apply to the Arlled Services Technical Informtion Agency (ASTU). Inorder to receive desired reports frOlll ASTU., the requesting agency shouldhave a definite need for such reports and should be eligible to receive suchinformation.
UNCL/1,SSIFIED
I..
~ect !II-1664. Cluster Bomb
REMARKS
lour of the 1-115 type cluster bolllbs 1I8l"e dropped on 15 April 1953•. A
DiBBioD lfaB scheduled for 17 April 1953, but 1fU cancelled becauae of pool"
weather. A mission scheduled for 20 April 1953 was cancelled by EdIlards Air
Force llaBe. A mission scheduled for 28 April 1953 1fU rescheduled fer
30 April because of a schedule confiict with Project IF-98j this DiBsion
finally lfaB cancelled by Edwards lli Force Base.
UNCLASSIFIED I LIMITED
[ This page is intentionally left blank. 1
UNCLASSIFIED I LIMITED
UNCLASSIFIED I LIMITED
To:
Requested By: KELLY AKERS, DTIC-RAttn: akers, Kelly
De£ Technical In£o Ctr (RlDTIC-R8725 John J KingMan Rd Ste 0944Fort Belvoir, VA 22060-6218
Dist~ibut"dBy DTiCInformation For The Defense Community
UNCLASSIFIED I LIMITED 20080417147