Integrated Missile Flight Safety System at Vandenberg/Point Arguello

Abstract

The background for the present safety system is outlined in a review of the original Air Force plans and installations and subsequent Navy-Air Force agreements for the coordinated use of the Pacific Missile Range, considering the expanded scope of operations in the area. A description is given of the ground stations in the unified acquisition and tracking system for range safety as well as the auxiliary equipment for missile monitoring during early parts of its flight trajectory. A review is made of the associated data transmission and processing equipment including operational direct voice circuits. The corresponding safety equipment in different types of missiles is discussed in connection with both command, tracking, and telemetry functions. The implementation of the flight termination command requirements is outlined in the main transmitting station and missile checkout apparatus. The support areas of status reporting, telemetry, timing, and communications are discussed in detail. Finally, new requirements for precise downrange impact prediction and vehicle thrust termination are described.