Instrumentation and Range Safety System for Vandenberg Air Force Base

Abstract

This paper is a survey of the Instrumentation and Range Safety System (IRSS) now under design for installation at Vandenberg Air Force Base (see Fig. 1). The Vandenberg Air Force Base will be used for launching intercontinental and intermediate range ballistic missiles, such as the Atlas, Titan, and Thor. These missiles, their launching pads and other associated information, are identified throughout the rest of the paper by the Air Force designation number. The number 65 identifies the Atlas; 68, the Titan; and 75, the Thor. The Vandenberg Air Force Base has been established in order to train Air Force crews in the launching of ballistic-type missiles and to establish an initial operating capability. Research and development will be provided only to the extent necessary to achieve the program. The range area is limited to the Vandenberg Air Force Base and the immediate launching facility, and does not include the area normally referred to as ``downrange''. The instrumentation System's basic function is to provide data substantiating the proper operation and reliability of the missile. The Range Safety System's basic function is to protect the life and property on and near Vandenberg Air Force Base.