9.0 PILOT'S REPORT
This section contains a description of the Apollo 15 mission from the standpoint of the
pilots
(
Photo).
The actual sequence of activities was very similar to the preflight plan. The flight plan, as executed, is summarized in figure 9-1, located at the end of this section.
9.1 TRAINING
The crew of Apollo 15 was able to concentrate their training time primarily on learning new operational techniques and becoming qualified in scientific aspects of the mission because of the demonstrated reliability and performance of Apollo hardware and because they had the experience of one complete training
cycle as backup crew for Apollo 12.
Approximately one-third of the crew's training time was applied to science. In addition, the crew participated in many phases of development and planning of the new operational and scientific techniques to be utilized in the accomplishment of the objectives of the Apollo 15 mission.
Standard training for Apollo 15 included emphasis on the following new
items developed for this mission: Scientific instrument module and
associated extravehicular activity; lunar roving vehicle and associated equipment;
A7L-B pressure garment assembly; concepts and equipment for expanded lunar
geology investigation; and major modifications to the computer program for the
command module, lunar module, and abort guidance system. Because of the vast
amount of new equipment programmed for lunar surface activity, considerable
crew time and effort were devoted to development of procedures in order to
optimize the time devoted to lunar surface exploration. Excellent support
was received, both in training and procedures development, throughout the
20 months of preparation for the flight.
9.2 LAUNCH
Countdown and launch preparations were well coordinated and timely. Significant events
were generally completed approximately 20 minutes ahead of schedule. The crew
was comfortable and the crew station was in excellent condition.
Ignition and lift-off were positive with the same overall vehicle vibration
frequency throughout S-IC flight that has been noted on previous flights.
Noise levels were lower than those the Commander had experienced
on Apollo 9, and communications were excellent throughout powered flight.
S-IC staging was abrupt and was accompanied by a 3- to 4-degree vehicle yaw,
which was corrected soon after S-II ignition. All other displayed and
physiological cues were as reported on previous flights with the exception
of a very low-amplitude 10- to 12-hertz vehicle vibration during both S-II
and S-IVB powered flight, and the lack of a perceptible cue to the programmed
shift in propellant utilization during S-II operation.
9.3 EARTH ORBITAL OPERATIONS
All systems checks during earth orbit were completed ahead of schedule and in
a satisfactory manner. Those checks included an alignment of the inertial
measurement unit, an entry monitor system test, and basic checks of the
environmental control and reaction control systems. The alignment was within
the drift tolerance voiced up from the ground, and the entry monitor system
test indicated an accelerometer bias of 0.01 ft/ sec. The reaction control
system was tested using minimum impulse to insure proper operation. During
postinsertion checks, the secondary isolation valve for quad B was found closed,
but the valve was reset satisfactorily. At about 1 hour, the quad D primary and
secondary isolation valves were also found closed and these were also reset.
The systems preparations for translunar injection were completed approximately 20
minutes ahead of schedule, and updates were received in a timely manner. A new
procedure was employed to align the flight director attitude indicator for
translunar injection which would allow smooth manual takeover at any time.
Also, a new computer program was utilized which allowed computer monitoring
and shutdown of the translunar injection burn if takeover had been required.
9.4 TRANSLUNAR INJECTION
All events in the translunar injection sequence were as expected with two
exceptions. First, in repressurization of the S-IVB hydrogen tank, the
increase in pressure was much slower than that experienced in preflight
training; however, the ground confirmed that the repressurization cycle
was nominal and final pressure values were within the expected range.
Second, an S-IVB propellant utilization shift was manifested as a marked
surge in thrust 1 minute after ignition. A low-amplitude vibration of about
10 to 12 hertz was felt throughout the translunar injection maneuver. The
S-IVB cutoff was 3 seconds early; however, the crew had been informed by
Mission Control to expect this.
9.5 TRANSLUNAR FLIGHT OPERATIONS
9.5.1 Transposition, Docking, and Extraction
The transposition and docking were accomplished in a fashion that was slightly
different from the checklist procedure. All of the procedures up to the point
of separation were accomplished as prescribed. The separation was completed
with the guidance and navigation system autopilot in control of the spacecraft
attitude. After separation, however, attitude control was switched to the
stabilization and control system. The manual attitude pitch switch was placed
in ACCEL CMD and the spacecraft was pitched 180 degrees at a rate of 2 deg/sec.
After completion of the 180-degree pitch maneuver, control of spacecraft attitude
was returned to the guidance and navigation autopilot and an automatic maneuver
was made to the docking attitude. While the automatic maneuver was being performed,
forward thrusting was accomplished for approximately 4 seconds to insure positive
closing of the command and service module and the S-IVB. The closing rate was
approximately 0.1 ft/sec. On contact, there was no indication of probe capture
latch engagement. Forward thrusting was applied for approximately 1 to 2 seconds
and the capture latch indication was then received. The probe was activated to
the retract position and the two spacecraft were hard-docked. At the completion
of the docking maneuver, the forward hatch was removed and the latches were checked.
One latch was not locked onto the docking ring. That latch was recocked and latched
manually. The lunar module umbilicals were then attached, and the hatch was replaced.
Extraction of the lunar module from the S-IVB was nominal and, at its completion, an
automatic maneuver was made to an attitude which allowed a view of subsequent S-IVB
maneuvers.
9.5.2 Translunar Coast
Spacecraft systems.- Shortly after the transposition and docking maneuver,
the service propulsion system thrust light on the entry monitor system panel
was illuminated, indicating a possible electrical short in the service propulsion
ignition system. A fault isolation procedure was transmitted to the crew and the
short was isolated to bank A of the service propulsion system electrical circuitry.
The first midcourse correction was utilized for further troubleshooting. Ignition
was initiated by closing the pilot valve main A circuit breaker. Since this
started the engine, the nature and location of the short allowed bank A to be
manually controlled for subsequent maneuvers. A special procedure was then developed
for lunar orbit insertion and transearth injection whereby the service propulsion
system maneuvers would be initiated normally with bank B after which the pilot
valve main A circuit breaker would be closed manually, turning on bank A. Prior
to the termination of the firing, the pilot valve main A circuit breaker would
be opened and the firing would be terminated automatically on bank B. All other
service propulsion system maneuvers were to be accomplished using bank B only.
Passive thermal control was employed to insure uniform surface heating as
on previous flights. Because a new computer program was used to establish
the spin rate, new procedures were developed for the initiation of passive
thermal control. On the first two attempts, the pitch and yaw rates were not
satisfactorily damped before starting the spin-up. However, passive thermal
control was satisfactorily established on the third and all subsequent attempts.
An electrical short occurred in the a-c power system somewhere in the lower
equipment bay -lighting circuitry, resulting in an opened circuit breaker on
the electrical systems panel. No troubleshooting was performed to locate the
short and the circuit breaker was left open. The affected lights in the lower
equipment bay and on the entry monitor system scroll were out for the remainder
of the mission. Rheostats for the operable lights in the lower equipment bay
were taped in the positions in which they were found and they remained that
way for the remainder of the flight.
During a chlorination cycle, a water leak was discovered on the water panel
around the chlorine injector port. The leak appeared as a ball of water
around the port. The water was absorbed by towels until information was
received from Mission Control indicating that the insert in the open end of
the chlorine injector port was possibly loose. Tools were obtained from the
tool kit, the port was tightened, and the leak subsided.
The first entry into the lunar module was made on schedule and all
planned equipment was transferred. The command and service module
oxygen hose was not used. During the inspection, the tunnel misalignment
was found to be less than 1 degree (plus or minus 10 degrees is allowed).
Also, the range/range-rate tapemeter glass was found broken. The command
module vacuum cleaner was used to clean up most of the glass fragments.
An additional entry into the lunar module was made at about 57 hours at
the request of Mission Control so that additional data on the batteries
could be obtained. The vacuum cleaner and lunar module cabin fans were
used to gather additional glass. No loose object was found that could
account for glass breakage.
Simulated cislunar midcourse navigation sightings were accomplished
during translunar coast for horizon calibration and on-the-job training.
The midcourse navigation exercises were valuable from the standpoint that
they allowed the Command Module Pilot to calibrate his eye to a horizon
for subsequent use in all transearth coast sightings.
Science and photography.- All science operations during translunar coast
were completed as scheduled. These operations included such things as
sextant photography of star patterns and ultraviolet photography of the
earth and moon. The ultraviolet photography was completed as prescribed,
requiring specific spacecraft attitudes and special operations associated
with command module window 5. A removable filter had been installed to
protect the crew from ultraviolet radiation. This filter required removal
to allow the ultraviolet photography. Because of the handling, the filter
became increasingly scratched during the flight.
9.5.3 Scientific Instrument Module Door Jettisoning
The scientific instrument module door was jettisoned after the second
midcourse correction and prior to lunar orbit insertion. To prepare
for this, the crew donned their pressure garments, performed a pressure
integrity check, and maneuvered the spacecraft to the proper attitude.
Jettisoning of the door was felt as a very light "thud" in the command
module. The only abnormal indication was the closing of the service module
reaction control system B secondary propellant isolation valve, which was
reset with no difficulty. The door was first observed from command module
window 5 at a distance of about 50 feet and on a trajectory 90 degrees from
the longitudinal axis of the spacecraft. Door jettison was accomplished
without difficulty and with much less reaction than had been anticipated.
9.6 LUNAR ORBIT OPERATIONS PRIOR TO DESCENT
9.6.1 Lunar Orbit Insertion
All checks for lunar orbit insertion were completed as scheduled in the flight
plan, and all systems were verified as acceptable for lunar orbit operations.
The maneuver to the lunar orbit insertion attitude was verified by a sextant
star check. Subsequently, the service propulsion system thrusting program was
activated and the velocities and angles were verified by the ground. All
commands from the ground were received in a timely manner. The firing was
accomplished as described in section 9.5.2. The maneuver was initiated with
very small transients, the attitude excursions were never greater than
approximately 1 degree, and the gimbal position indications showed a very
smooth and positive response to the shift in the center of gravity. The
maneuver was terminated by the guidance and navigation system with zero
residuals. The descent orbit initiation maneuver was accomplished using
service propulsion system bank B alone. This maneuver, as in the lunar
orbit insertion maneuver, was preceded by systems checks which were all
nominal, and the maneuver was nominal. A subsequent descent orbit insertion
trim maneuver that had been anticipated and scheduled prior to flight was,
in fact, required before undocking because of perturbations in the orbit up
to that point. It was a very small maneuver of approximately 3 ft/sec and
was accomplished using the reaction control system maneuver program. All
pre-maneuver checks were completed nominally and the maneuver was performed
satisfactorily.
9.6.2 Lunar Module Activation, Undocking and Separation
On the day scheduled for landing, entry into the lunar module was about 40 minutes
early. Final closure of the suit zippers was accomplished in the lunar module. One
procedural change was made in order to purge the suit umbilical hoses: Both suit
isolation valves were placed in the FLOW position for 15 seconds, then in the
DISCONNECT position, after which the suit gas diverter valve was placed in the
CABIN position. Checklist functions were generally performed 10 minutes ahead
of schedule.
As noted in earlier flights, stars were difficult to see through the alignment
optical telescope while docked with the command module. However, the results of
a two-star sighting using the cursor-spiral technique indicated platform realignment
could be achieved with the optics.
The suit loop integrity check was unsuccessful on the first attempt. The checklist
procedure was followed, but there was obviously a leak because the pressure drop
was approximately 1 psi in 30 seconds. The valve detents were checked, the regulator
was rechecked, and then another integrity check was made. This time, the pressure
drop was acceptable at 0.1 psi in 1 minute. The time a1lowed to accomplish the required
functions for powered descent is more than sufficient. This became apparent when a
number of unanticipated events occurred. Condensate had formed on the lunar module
windows and the heaters had to be activated in order to clear them. Undocking was
delayed for approximately 40 minutes because the command module/lunar module power
transfer umbilical connections were not electrically engaged. A descent engine
throttle check had to be redone because the descent engine control assembly circuit
breaker was in the open position during the first check. The timeline was regained
by the time of the scheduled guidance and navigation system platform realignment
and the pace was very leisurely as the time for powered descent initiation approached;
the crew even had time to eat lunch. The rendezvous radar self-test was normal but,
after separation, the range indicated by the rendezvous radar was approximately twice
that indicated by VHF ranging (see sec. 7.4).
9.7 POWERED DESCENT AND LANDING
The angle of the final descent trajectory after high gate was increased from 14
degrees to 25 degrees for Apollo 15. This afforded improved dispersion conditions
during the braking phase over the Apennine Mountains, better visibility after pitchover,
and more precise control of manual landing site redesignations.
After receiving final uplinks from the Manned Space Flight Network, the powered
descent program was called up in the lunar module guidance computer 10 minutes prior
to ignition. The landing radar circuit breaker was closed 5 minutes prior to ignition,
as planned, and all events were nominal through the first minute of powered flight.
Automatic ullage and ignition were clearly evident by physiological cues. A correction
was manually entered into the computer to move the targeted landing site about
853 meters (2800 feet) west (downrange) just prior to ignition plus 2 minutes.
The indicated quantity of onboard fuel was 2 percent low at this time, but this
was considered acceptable by ground control. Three minutes after ignition, the
spacecraft was yawed to the planned inplane face-up attitude. Immediately thereafter,
at approximately 43 000 feet altitude, landing radar data became acceptable and computer
updates were initiated. Landing radar data were solid throughout the remainder of
powered flight.
Throttle recovery occurred on time, and manual attitude hold was evaluated with the
following expected results: positive response, considerable reaction control system
activity, and rapid return to smooth automatic guidance at the Completion of the
check. Predicted pitchover time (high gate) was checked in the computer, and conformed
to the preflight nominal time of 9 minutes 22 seconds.
At an altitude of approximately 9000 feet, the upper fourth of Hadley Delta Mountain
(1-1 000 feet high) was visible out of the left window. The feeling of slow, forward,
floating motion was experienced and, because of the relative position and motion
with respect to the mountain, an impression of a downrange overshoot was experienced.
At about 8000 feet altitude, ground control informed the crew that the expected
landing site was to be approximately 915 meters (3000 feet) south of the targeted site.
Pitchover occurred on time and the only positive recognizable lunar surface feature was
Hadley Rille. Topographic relief was much less than had been anticipated from the
enhanced 20-meter (65-foot) resolution photography and the associated preflight lunar
terrain models. Sharp landmark recognition features within the Plain of Hadley were
almost nonexistent; however the South Cluster was soon identified. Based upon the
apparent position relative to this feature, plus the 915-meter miss distance to the
south given by ground control, several landing point redesignations were made to the
right (north).
At an altitude of approximately 5000 feet, a pair of subdued craters, which appeared to
be Salyut and its northerly adjacent neighbor, were identified. Uprange landing point
redesignations were made so that the landing could be made in the correct area northwest
of Salyut Crater. The touchdown point was selected from an altitude of 2000 feet and the
lunar module was maneuvered to land on what appeared to be a smooth level surface. The
low-gate phase (manual control) of the trajectory was manually selected and confirmed
at an altitude of 400 feet. Descent rate reduction was initiated at a height of about
200 feet, and visual reference was maintained by watching several fragments on the
lunar surface which were located 30 to 40 meters (100 to 130 feet) west of the selected
site. A trace of blowing surface dust was observed at a height of 130 feet with only a
slight increase down to 60 feet. Beginning at this altitude, out-of-the window visibility
was completely obscured by dust until after touchdown.
Tapemeter altitude and altitude rate data readings, provided orally by the Lunar Module
Pilot, appeared to be consistent with the visual observations throughout the terminal
phase of the landing. Surface features and texture became well defined at an altitude
of approximately 1000 feet and, based on preflight experience with visual simulator
displays, descent rates appeared completely nominal and comfortable. Sensations after
manual takeover at 400 feet were almost identical with those experienced in lunar
landing training vehicle operations. The combination of visual simulations and lunar
landing training vehicle flying provided excellent training for the manual portion of
the lunar landing. Comfort and confidence existed throughout this phase.
Additional manual maneuvering south and west could easily have been made below 400
feet; however, because of increased surface mobility afforded by the lunar roving
vehicle, a landing anywhere within the 3-sigma dispersion ellipse was considered a
precise landing, and additional maneuvering within this ellipse, other than for terrain
obstacle avoidance, was considered unnecessary.
The engine stop button was activated shortly after the contact lights were illuminated
to preclude excessive pressure buildup within the nozzle of the descent engine (which
had been extended 10 inches since Apollo 14). Touchdown was firm but only slightly more
so than nominal lunar landing training vehicle landings. Roll and pitch rates were
evident at touchdown as the rear and left foot pads came to rest in a shallow subdued
crater which was not visible during the final phase of the landing. The posttouchdown
events were nominal; no spurious reaction control system firings occurred, and permission
for the lunar stay was voiced by Houston in a timely manner.
9.8 LUNAR SURFACE OPERATIONS
9.8.1 Lunar Module Cabin Activity
Standup extravehicular activity This operation went very smoothly. No problem was
encountered in removing and stowing the drogue. There was no direct sunlight on the
lunar module panels as observations were made and pictures taken from the high
vantage point. The base of the Apennine Front at Hadley Delta, as well as the North
Complex, was visible from this point, and because of the lack of obstacles, acceptable
lunar roving vehicle trafficability over all traverse routes was verified.
The secondary water separator was selected during this period because of a caution
light during primary separator operation. After the standup extravehicular activity,
the primary separator was reselected.
A picture taken during the standup extravehicular activity which reveals the
stratigraphy of Silver Spur is shown in
figure 9-2.
The sun angle during
subsequent extravehicular activities did not allow this observation.
Sleep.- The crew was able to sleep fairly well. Noise was minimized by
configuring the environmental control system in accordance with the
checklist and by using earplugs. The temperature was ideal for sleeping
in the constant-wear garment and sleeping bag, or in the constant-wear
garment and coveralls. A wider hammock would improve the conditions for
sleeping. Aslight light leak through the stitching on the window shades
interfered with getting to sleep.
Extravehicular activity preparation and post -extravehicular activity. The times
for preparation were consistently shorter than the times allowed on the checklist.
The only difficulty encountered was movement in the cabin when in the
pressurized suits. Several areas presented obstacles: the forward corner on
the data file, the portable life support system stowage handle, and the
stowed water hose. The portable life support system recharge was
accomplished during the eat period in order to save time and the
Lunar Module Pilot had difficulty in turning the portable life
support system water valve off. The suit was easy to don and
doff in 1/6 earth gravity. The crew found that it was possible
to lift themselves up, using the overhead bar, and place both feet
in the suit simultaneously.
Housekeeping.- When doffing the pressure garment assembly after lunar
surface extravehicular operations, the Commander stood on the midsection
step and the Lunar Module Pilot stood on his oxygen purge system to
avoid the dirty floor. A jettison bag was placed over the legs of the
suit to contain the dirt.
9.8.2 Lunar Geology
The geological setting of the Hadley-Apennine landing site is such
that a great variety of features and samples were expected. Lack
of high resolution Photography of the site insured that variations
in preflight estimates of topographic relief, and surface debris
and cratering could also be expected. In all cases, actual conditions
exceeded expectations.
In general, the mare surface at Hadley is characterized by a hummocky
lunar terrain produced by a high density of rounded, subdued, low-rimmed
craters of all sizes. The craters range in size up to several hundred
meters in diameter and are poorly sorted. There is a notable absence
of large areas of fragmental debris or boulder fields. Unique, fresh,
1- to 2- meter-diameter, debris-filled craters, with glass-covered
fragments in their central 10 percent, occurred on less than 1 percent
of the mare surface.
The large blocks comprising the Apennine Mountains have extremely
rounded profiles with less than 0.1 percent exposed surface outcroppings
or fresh young craters. However, massive units of well-organized
uniformly parallel lineations appear within all blocks, each block
having a different orientation within the Hadley area. Mount
Hadley is the most dramatic of these blocks, where at least
200 lineations
(
fig. 9-3),
dipping approximately 30 degrees
to the west-northwest, are exposed on its
southwest slope. Discontinuous, linear, patterned ground is visible
superimposed over these lineations. A more definitive exposure of
these units was observed at Silver Spur (fig. 9-2) where an upper
unit of seven 60-meter (200-foot) thick layers is in contact with
a lower section of somewhat thinner parallel layering having evidence
of crossbedding and subhorizontal fractures. Also, three continuous,
subhorizontal, non-uniform lineations are visible within, and unique
to, the lower 10 percent of the Mount Hadley vertical profile.
The most distinctive feature of Hadley Rille is the exposed
layering within the bedrock on the upper 15 percent of the
rille walls
(
fig. 9-4).
Two major units can be identified
in this region; the upper 10 percent appears as poorly organized
massive blocks with an apparent fracture orientation dipping
approximately 45 degrees to the north. The lower 5 percent is
a distinct horizontal unit exposed as discontinuous outcrops
partially covered with talus and fines. Each exposure is
characterized by approximately 10 different multilayered
parallel horizontal bedding planes. The remainder of the
slope is covered with talus, 20 to 30 percent of which
is fragmental debris, with a suggestion of another massive
unit with a heavy cover of fines at a level 40 percent downward
from the top. The exposures at this level appear lighter in
color and more rounded than the general talus debris. No
significant collection of talus is apparent at any one level.
The upper 10 percent of the eastern side of the rille is
characterized by massive subangular blocks of fine-grained
vesicular porphyritic basalt containing up to 15 percent
phenocrysts. This unit, as viewed toward the south, has
the same character as the upper unit on the western wall.
The bottom of the rille is gently sloping and smooth with
no evidence of flow in any direction. No accumulation of
talus was evident on the bottom except for occasional
boulders up to 2 meters (6.6 feet) in size.
The major concentration of craters, depicted on preflight maps,
is the South Cluster on the Hadley Plain. Because of the general
lack of morphological features on the slopes of Mount Hadley and
Hadley Delta, a linear concentration of craters up the slope of
Hadley Delta, directly south of the Cluster, indicates that a
sweep of secondary fragments from the north may have been the
origin of the South Cluster. A buildup of debris on the southern
rim of these craters was not evident, although the approximately
10-percent coverage of the surface by fragmental debris in the
region of the South Cluster is unique within the Hadley region.
Sampling was accomplished in the general vicinity of all preplanned
locations with the exception of the North Complex, which was
unfortunately excluded because of higher priorities of activities
associated with lunar surface experiments. A great variety of
samples were collected; some are obviously associated with their
location, while others will require further study to determine a
relationship. The capability to identify rock types at the time
of collection was comparable to a terrestrial exercise and was
unhampered by the unique environment of the moon. Identifiable
sample features include: anorthosite; basalts with vesicules of
various sizes, distribution, and orientation; basalts with
phenocrysts of various quantities, sizes, shapes, and orientation;
olivine- and pyroxene-rich basalts; third-order breccias with a
variety of well-defined clasts; rounded glass fragments; glass-filled
fractures and glass-covered fragments; and other surface features
such as slickensides.
9.8.3 Lunar Surface Mobility Systems Performance
Extravehicular mobility unit.- The mobility of the modified
suit allowed the lunar roving vehicle to be mounted easily.
It was also possible to bend down on one knee to retrieve
objects from the surface.
The cooling performance of the portable life support system
was excellent. The Commander used maximum cooling for tasks
such as the drilling operations. The Lunar Module Pilot never
used more than intermediate cooling. For the driving portion
of the lunar surface exploration, minimum cooling was quite
comfortable. During the first extravehicular activity, the
Lunar Module Pilot experienced several warning tones. The
suspected cause was a bubble in the portable life support
system water supply. When switchover to auxiliary water
was required, ground control recommended minimum cooling,
which was new information to the crew. The temperature in
the suits gradually increased over the three extravehicular
activities.
The portable life support system straps were adjusted during the
preflight crew compartment fit and function procedure. The
Commander's straps worked fine. However, the Lunar Module
Pilot's seemed short since the controls were located too
high and too far to the left for him to reach. The Commander's
portable life support system seemed loose at the end of the
third extravehicular activity.
Lunar roving vehicle.- The major hardware innovation for
the lunar exploration phase of the Apollo 15 mission was
the lunar roving vehicle
(
fig. 9-5.) Because of geological requirements during surface traverses, time was limited for evaluating the characteristics of the vehicle. However, during the traverses, a number of qualitative evaluations were made. The following text discusses the performance, and the stability and control of "Rover 1", as well as
other operational considerations pertaining to the vehicle.
The manual deployment technique worked very well. Simulations had
demonstrated the effectiveness of this technique and, with several
minor exceptions, it worked exactly as in preflight demonstrations.
The first unexpected condition was noticed immediately after
removing the thermal blanket when both walking hinges were found
open. They were reset and the vehicle was deployed in a nominal
manner. The support saddle, however, was difficult to remove after
the vehicle was on the surface. No apparent cause was evident.
Additionally, both left front hinge pins were out of their normal
detent positions; both were reset with the appropriate tool. After
removal of the support saddle, the rover was manually positioned
such that "forward" would be the initial driving mode.
Front steering was inoperative during the first extravehicular
activity. All switches and circuit breakers were cycled a number
of times during the early portion of the first extravehicular
activity with no effect on the steering. Subsequently, at the
beginning of the second extravehicular activity, cycling of the
front steering switch apparently enabled the front steering
capability which was then utilized throughout the remaining
traverses.
Mounting and dismounting the rover was comparable to preflight
experience in 1/6-gravity simulations in the KC-135 aircraft.
Little difficulty was encountered. The normal mounting technique
included grasping the staff near the console and, with a small hop,
positioning the body in the seat. Final adjustment was made by
sliding, while using the footrest and the back of the seat for
leverage. It was determined early in the traverses that some method
of restraining the crew members to their seats was absolutely essential.
In the case of Rover 1, the seatbelts worked adequately; however,
excessive time and effort were required to attach the belts. The
pressure suit interface with the rover was adequate in all respects.
None of the preflight problems of visibility and suit pressure
points were encountered.
The performance of the vehicle was excellent. The lunar terrain
conditions in general were very hummocky, having a smooth texture and
only small areas of fragmental debris. A wide variety of craters was
encountered. Approximately 90 percent had smooth, subdued rims which
were, in general, level with the surrounding surface. Slopes up to
approximately 15 percent were encountered. The vehicle could be maneuvered
through any region very effectively. The surface material varied from
a thin powdered dust which the boots would penetrate to a depth of
5 to 8 centimeters (2 to 3 inches) on the slope of the Apennine
Front to a firm rille soil which was penetrated about 1 centimeter
(one-quarter to one-half inch) by the boot. In all cases, the
rover's performance was changed very little.
The velocity of the rover on the level surface reached a maximum of
13 kilometers (7 miles) per hour. Driving directly upslope on the
soft surface material at the Apennine Front, maximum velocities of
10 kilometers (5.4 miles) per hour were maintained. Comparable
velocities could be maintained obliquely on the slopes unless
crater avoidance became necessary. Under these conditions, the
downhill wheel tended to dig in and the speed was reduced for
safety.
Acceleration was normally smooth with very little wheel slippage,
although some soil could be observed impacting on the rear part of
the fenders as the vehicle was accelerated with maximum throttle.
During a "Lunar Grand Prix", a roostertail was noted above, behind,
and over the front of the rover during the acceleration phase. This
was approximately 3 meters (10 feet) high and went some 3 meters forward
of the rover. No debris was noted forward or above the vehicle during
constant velocity motion. Traction of the wire wheels was excellent
uphill, downhill, and during acceleration. A speed of 10 kilometers
per hour could be attained in approximately three vehicle lengths
with very little wheel slip. Braking was positive except at the high
speeds. At any speed under 5 kilometers (2.7 miles) per hour, braking
appeared to occur in approximately the same distance as when using
the 1-g trainer. From straight-line travel at velocities of approximately
10 kilometers per hour on a level surface, the vehicle could be stopped
in a distance of approximately twice that experienced in the 1-g
trainer. Braking was less effective if the vehicle was in a turn,
especially at higher velocities.
Dust accumulation on the vehicle was considered minimal and only
very small particulate matter accumulated over a long period of
time. Larger particles appeared to be controlled very well by the
fenders. The majority of the dust accumulation occurred on the
lower horizontal surfaces such as floorboards, seatpans, and the
rear wheel area. Soil accumulation within the wheels was not
observed. Those particles which did pass through the wire
seemed to come out cleanly. Dust posed no problem to
visibility.
Obstacle avoidance was commensurate with speed. Lateral
skidding occurred during any hardover or maximum-rate turn
above 5 kilometers per hour. Associated with the lateral
skidding was a loss of braking effectiveness. The suspension
bottomed out approximately three times during the entire
surface activity with no apparent ill effect. An angular
30- centimeter (1-foot) high fragment was traversed by the
left front wheel with no loss of controllability or steering,
although the suspension did bottom out. A relatively straight-line
traverse was easily maintained by selection of a point on the
horizon for directional control, in spite of the necessity to
maneuver around the smaller subdued craters. Fragmental debris
was clearly visible and easy to avoid on the surface. The small,
hummocky craters were the major problem in negotiating the traverse,
and the avoidance of these craters seemed necessary to prevent
controllability loss and bottoming of the suspension system.
Vehicle tracks were prominent on the surface and very little variation
of depth occurred when the bearing on all four wheels was equal.
On steep slopes, where increased loads were carried by the downhill
wheels, deeper tracks were encountered - perhaps up to 3 or 4
centimeters (an inch or two) in depth. There was no noticeable
effect of driving on previously deposited tracks, although these
effects were not specifically investigated. The chevron tread
pattern left distinct and sharp imprints. In the soft, loose
soil at the Apollo lunar surface experiment package site, one
occurrence of wheel spin was corrected by manually moving the
rover to a new surface.
The general stability and control of the lunar roving vehicle was
excellent. The vehicle was statically stable on any slopes encountered and
the only problem associated with steep slopes was the tendency of the vehicle
to slide downslope when both crewmen were off the vehicle. The rover
is dynamically stable in roll and pitch. There was no tendency for
the vehicle to roll even when traveling upslope or downslope,
across contour lines or parallel to contour lines. However,
qualitative evaluation indicates that roll instability would
be approached on the 15-degree slopes if the vehicle were
traveling a contour line with one crewmember on the downhill
side. Both long- and short-period pitch motions were experienced
in response to vehicle motion over the cratered, hummocky terrain,
and the motion introduced by individual wheel obstacles. The
long-period motion was very similar to that encountered in the
1-g trainer, although more lightly damped. The "floating" of
the crewmembers in the 1/6-g field was quite noticeable in
comparison to 1- g simulations. Contributions of shortperiod
motion of each wheel were unnoticed and it was difficult to
tell how many wheels were off the ground at any one time.
At one point during the "Lunar Grand Prix", all four
wheels were off the ground, although this was undetectable
from the driver's seat.
Maneuvering was quite responsive at speeds below approximately
5 kilometers per hour. At speeds on the order of 10 kilometers
per hour, response to turning was very poor until speed was
reduced. The optimum technique for obstacle avoidance was to
slow below 5 kilometers per hour and then apply turning correction.
Hardover turns using any steering mode at 10 kilometers per hour
would result in a breakout of the rear wheels and lateral skidding
of the front wheels. This effect was magnified when only the rear
wheels were used for steering. There was no tendency toward
overturn instability due to steering or turning alone. There
was one instance of breakout and lateral skidding of the rear
wheels into a crater approximately 1/2 meter (1-112 feet) deep
and 1-1/4 meters (4 feet) wide. This resulted in a rear wheel
contacting the far wall of the crater and subsequent lateral
bounce. There was no subsequent roll instability or tendency
to turn over, even though visual motion cues indicated a roll
instability might develop.
The response and the handling qualities using the control stick are
considered adequate. The hand controller was effective throughout
the speed range, and directional control was considered excellent.
Minor difficulty was experienced with feedback through the suited
crewmember to the hand controller during driving. However, this feedback
could be improved by a more positive method of restraint in the seat.
Maximum velocity on a level surface can be maintained by leaving the
control stick in any throttle position and steering with small inputs
left or right. A firm grip on the handle at all times is unnecessary.
Directional control response is excellent although, because of the
many dynamic links between the steering mechanism and the hand on
the throttle, considerable feedback through the pressure suit to
the control stick exists. A light touch on the hand grip reduces
the effect of this feedback. An increase in the lateral and breakout
forces in the directional hand controller should minimize feedback
into the steering.
Two steering modes were investigated. On the first extravehicular
activity, where rear-wheel-only steering was available, the
vehicle had a tendency to dig in with the front wheels and break
out with the rear wheels with large, but less than hardover,
directional corrections. On the second extravehicular activity,
front-wheel-only steering was attempted, but was abandoned because
of the lack of rear wheel centering. Four-wheel steering was
utilized for the remainder of the mission. It is felt that for
the higher speeds, optimum steering would be obtained utilizing
front steering provided the rear wheels are center-locked. For
lower speeds and maximum obstacle avoidance, four-wheel steering
would be optimal. Any hardover failure of the steering mechanism
would be recognized immediately and could be controlled safely
by maximum braking.
Forward visibility was excellent throughout the range of conditions
encountered with the exception of driving toward the zero-phase
direction. Washout, under these conditions, made obstacle avoidance
difficult. Up-sun was comparable to cross-sun if the opaque visor
on the lunar extravehicular visor assembly was lowered to a point
which blocks the direct rays of the sun. In this condition, crater
shadows and debris were easily seen. General lunar terrain features
were detectable within 10 degrees of the zero phase region.
Detection of features under high-sun conditions was somewhat
more difficult because of the lack of shadows, but with constant
attention, 10 to 11 kilometers (5-1/2 to 6 miles) per hour could
be maintained. The problem encountered was recognizing the subtle,
subdued craters directly in the vehicle path. In general, 1-meter
(3 1/4-foot) craters were not detectable until the front wheels
had approached to within 2 to 3 meters (6-1/2 to 10 feet).
The reverse feature of the vehicle was utilized several times,
and preflight-developed techniques worked well. Only short
distances were covered, and then only with a dismounted crewmember
confirming the general condition of the surface to be covered.
The 1-g trainer provides adequate training for lunar roving vehicle
operation on the lunar surface. Adaptation to lunar characteristics
is rapid. Handling characteristics are quite natural after several
minutes of driving. The major difference encountered with respect
to preflight training was the necessity to pay constant attention
to the lunar terrain in order to have adequate warning for obstacle
avoidance if maximum average speeds were to be maintained. Handling
characteristics of the actual lunar roving vehicle were similar to
those of the 1-g trainer with two exceptions: braking requires
approximately twice the distance, and steering is not responsive
in the 8- to 10-kilometer (4- to 5 1/2-mile) per hour range with
hardover control inputs. Suspension characteristics appeared to be
approximately the same between the two vehicles and the 1/6-g suspension
simulation is considered to be an accurate representation with the exception
of the crewmembers' weight.
The navigation system is accurate and a high degree of confidence
was attained in a very short time. Displays are also adequate for the
lunar roving vehicle systems.
Lunar communications relay unit.- The lunar communications relay unit
and associated equipment operated well throughout the lunar surface
activities. The deployment techniques and procedures are good, and the
operational constraints and activation overhead are minimum. Alignment of
the high-gain antenna was the only difficulty encountered, and this was due
to the very dim image of the earth presented through the optical sighting
device. The use of signal strength as indicated on the automatic gain
control meter was an acceptable back-up alignment technique.
9.8.4 Lunar Surface Science Equipment Performance
Apollo lunar surface experiment package.- The packages were manually
removed from the scientific equipment bay. During unstowing of equipment, the
universal handling tools were difficult to remove from the stowed position
and the scientific equipment bay doors required cycling to the fully closed
position. In deploying the central station, the strings which pull the rear
pins on the sun shield cover were broken, requiring the Lunar Module Pilot to
pull the pins with his fingers. Connection of the suprathermal ion detector
experiment to the central station was very difficult. The task required the
Lunar Module Pilot to use both hands and all the weight that he could bring
to bear on the locking collar. Another difficulty was in the deployment of
the suprathermal ion detector experiment. The universal handling tool was not
locked, which caused the suprathermal ion detector experiment to fall off the
tool when positioning the experiment.
Emplacement of the heat flow experiment and collection of the deep
core sample were difficult and required far more time and effort than
anticipated. Operation of the hardware components was acceptable with the
exception of the vise on the geology pallet. The vise was installed
incorrectly and was useless for separating the assembled stems.
The primary cause of the working difficulties encountered with the lunar
drill was the lack of knowledge of the regolith encountered at the Hadley
site. Because of the hardness of the material 1 meter (3 1/4 feet) below the
surface, the bore stems for drilling the holes for the heat flow experiment
did not penetrate at the expected rates and did not excavate deep material to
the surface. Because of the resulting high torque levels on the chuck-stem
interface, the chuck bound to the stems and, in one case, required
destruction of the stem to remove the chuck and drill. The deep core sample
could not be extracted from the hard soil by normal methods and required both
crewmen lifting on the drill handles to remove it. The exterior flutes
contributed to this condition since the core stems were pulled into the lunar
surface when the drill was activated. See section 14.4.1 for further
discussion.
Soil mechanics.- The classic trench was easily dug in the vicinity of
the Apollo lunar surface experiment deployment site. Penetrometer
measurements were made at the trench and in the lunar roving vehicle tracks.
The floor of the trench was a very hard resistant layer. In making the
penetrometer measurements, the trench side was collapsed by pushing on the
flat plate positioned about 10 centimeters (4 inches) from the trench wall. A
problem with the penetrometer was that the ground plane would not stay in the
extended position because of excessive spring force (see section 4.13).
Geology tools.- The retractable tethers (yo-yo's) failed during the
first extravehicular activity. These devices were used by the Commander to
secure tongs and by the Lunar Module Pilot to secure the extension
handle during the geology work. They would have been used to hold the
universal handling tools during deployment of the Apollo lunar surface
experiment package. Unfortunately, both yo-yos failed before the experiment
package was deployed. Cord was used for the flight equipment instead of wire,
as on the training equipment. The tongs, scoop, hammer, and rake worked well,
and the rake also functioned well as a scoop. The newly designed core tube
worked well in that the sample was completely retained. Penetration of the
surface with the core tube was usually accomplished with a hard push; however,
the hammer was required to obtain a double core. The locking and unlocking of
the buddy secondary life support system bag attached to the rear of the
geology pallet was very difficult because the locking tab was hidden behind
the bag. Sample return container 2 was not sealed because a portion of the
collection bag was caught in the rear hinge.
Cameras.- The film in the 16-mm data acquisition camera would not pull
through the camera. Only one magazine worked on the lunar surface. Also, the
Lunar Module Pilot's 70-mm Hasselblad electric data camera malfunctioned at
the end of the second extravehicular activity. An inspection in the lunar
module cabin revealed excessive lunar material on the film drive. The camera
failed again on the third extravehicular activity and was returned to earth.
These anomalies are discussed in sections 14.5.3 and 14-5.4.
9.9 LUNAR ORBITAL SOLO OPERATIONS
9.9.1 Maneuvers
Solo maneuvers in lunar orbit included circularization and a plane
change. Both of these maneuvers were accomplished using service propulsion
system bank B only because of the aforementioned circuit problem with bank
A. The maneuvers were nominal and were accomplished with residual
velocities of an order that required no further maneuvering.
9.9.2 Science and Photography
Scientific instrument module experiments.- The scientific instrument
module was operated during the three days of lunar surface activity according
to carefully detailed preflight planning. Because of the complexity of the
scientific instrument module, all operations during this period were to be
accomplished without deviation from the flight plan. In the event that
difficulties were encountered, items were to be dropped from the flight plan.
Some flight difficulties were experienced with the scientific instrument
module operations. These difficulties were associated with the retraction of
the mass spectrometer boom and with the extension and retraction of the
mapping camera. The mass spectrometer boom extended normally but did not
always indicate full retraction. It was suspected that the boom was
retracting into the carriage, but not far enough to cause an indication of
full retraction. The monitoring, as well as the timing of the boom extensions
and retractions, required an expenditure of time which had not been
anticipated preflight. The mapping camera extended and retracted more slowly
than had been anticipated and it eventually failed in the extended position.
This also required additional monitoring time on the part of the Command
Module Pilot. The mass spectrometer boom retraction problem is discussed in
more detail in section 14.1.6 and additional discussion on the mapping camera
problem is given in section 14.3.3.
The scientific instrument module bay activity was essentially a monitoring
operation. Functions were performed at a prescribed time and required very
careful attention to the details in the flight plan. One procedure that was
used to assist in this monitoring activity was the use of computer time on the
display keyboard in the lower equipment bay. The procedure required the
initiation of an external delta-velocity program at a prescribed time. The
clock in the computer would then count down to, and up from, that time.
However, because of the calculations required by the computer during operation
of this program, the spacecraft actually deviated out of the attitude control
dead bands. Therefore, after the first day in lunar orbit, the computer program
was used for very short intervals of time only. Consequently, the monitoring of
the scientific instrument module bay became much more difficult because the
timing of these events had to be accomplished using ground elapsed time, and
not time relative to an event. Also complicating the monitoring was the fact
that the lights in the lower equipment bay could no longer illuminate the
mission timer because of the previously described short in the a-c electrical
system.
All of the solo operations in lunar orbit were accomplished well
within the capability of the Command Module Pilot with respect to the
amount of work that had to be done in the time available. There were
times when visual observation of the surface and hand-held photography
were accomplished in conjunction with the operation of the scientific
instrument module bay. This posed no problem and was accomplished as
prescribed.
Command and service module photography.- The onboard photography was
accomplished generally as prescribed in the flight plan except that the
operation was more detailed than had been anticipated prior to flight.
Acquisition of all photographic targets was based on flight plan time.
However, with additional training just prior to flight, the Command Module
Pilot attained a sufficient degree of proficiency in target recognition and
in the geology of the lunar surface so that detailed flight plan times were
not required.
The photography was accomplished using the settings prescribed in the
flight plan and additional photographs were taken utilizing the settings
based on sun angles that were listed in both the orbit monitor charts and by
an orbit monitor wheel which was developed for that purpose. The photography
from window 5 posed some problems because of a Lexan filter installed inside
of the spacecraft (since no ultraviolet filter existed within the window).
The Lexan filter, at this time, was scratched and it did not appear that
good photography could be taken through that window, so the filter was
removed for the photography and then replaced.
Visual observations.- In conjunction with the photography, visual
observations of selected surface features were made. These observations
were designed to allow a better understanding of large-scale geologic
processes. Three areas of special interest were centered around the crater
Tsiolkovsky, the Littrow area, and the Aristarchus Plateau.
Tsiolkovsky is a large impact crater centered at 128 degrees east
latitude, and uniquely placed in the region between the large mare basins
and the upland areas on the back side. It is a deep crater with a prominent
central peak and steep rim walls; the crater walls are cut by several
faults. The smooth, dark crater floor resembles the mare surfaces visible on
the moon's near side. There is much evidence of volcanic processes on the
eastern side of the crater as shown by numerous lava flows originating along
fault zones and filling minor craters around Tsiolkovsky. On the western
side, there is a large rock avalanche that extends from the rim northwest
into the subdued crater Fermi.
The Littrow area was viewed because of distinct color banding extending
out into Mare Serenitatis. This banding appears to have been produced by
volcanism in the form of flows or volcanic ash deposits. Within the darkest
band, there were numerous small positive features believed to be cinder
cones. These are the first well-documented cinder cones observed on the
moon.
The Aristarchus Plateau appears to be the most active volcanic area on
the moon. There are many lava flows and rille-like features in the central
plateau area.
One of the mysteries about the rilles has been the rille termini. If
these features were formed by lava flows, there would be delta-shaped flow
tongues formed at the outlets. Inflight observation resulted in the
conclusion that if these delta-shaped flow tongues were present, they were
covered by lava flows that inundated the rilles.
9.10 ASCENT, RENDEZVOUS AND DOCKING
9.10.1 Ascent
Ascent ignition was automatic, the programmed pitchover was smooth and
positive, and the trajectory appeared nominal throughout the maneuver. Five
minutes after lift-off, radar lock-on was attempted with negative results; 5
seconds of high slew in each direction also resulted in no signal strength.
Approaching insertion, Houston advised of a radial error in the primary
guidance and navigation system and recommended an in-plane trim of the abort
guidance system velocity residuals. At automatic primary guidance and
navigation system shutdown, the abort guidance system indicated a residual
velocity of minus 3.5 ft/sec. This was trimmed to minus 2 ft/sec along the
longitudinal axis. No vernier adjustment was required, and the ground
advised that the terminal phase initiate maneuver would be off-nominal and
that final approach would be from near horizontal; these factors were due to
the command and service module orbit.
9.10.2 Rendezvous
Lunar module.- The abort guidance system warning light came on shortly
after insertion. The light was reset normally and the abort guidance system
self-test was satisfactory. After insertion, there was early confirmation of
rendezvous radar, primary guidance and navigation system, and abort guidance
system guidance data. Automatic updating was enabled in both the primary
guidance system and the abort guidance system. At final computation for
terminal phase initiation, there were 26 marks in the primary guidance and
navigation system, and 13 range marks and 13 range-rate marks in the abort
guidance system. Another accelerometer bias update was made on the primary
guidance system before terminal phase initiation. The primary guidance and
navigation system solution was used.
Nominal procedures were used for primary guidance and navigation system
midcourse corrections. For the abort guidance system, several rangerate
inputs were manually inserted to insure that there were sufficient marks to
obtain good solutions. The technique used was to watch the mark counter until
the range changed to a plus value, then the range rate was manually entered.
The command and service module tracking light was not visible until 40
minutes after sunset at a range of approximately 18 miles.
When approaching the last braking gate (1500 feet separation distance),
the Commander was surprised to see that no line-of-sight rates were indicated
by the rendezvous radar crosspointers. (Refer to sec. 14.2.7 for a discussion
of this anomaly.) Line of site rates were verified by the Command Module
Pilot. Thrusting left and up approximately 4 ft/sec was required to null the
line-of-site rates. The resulting out-of-plane angle at station keeping was
approximately 20 degrees.
Command and service module.- The command and service module was prepared for the
rendezvous by deactivating all of the scientific instrument module bay experiments, retracting all of the
booms, and closing the camera and experiment covers. All but four reaction control jets were activated 3
hours before lunar module ascent initiation to allow proper ground tracking and orbit determination. On
the rendezvous revolution itself, VHF contact was made just prior to ascent and the Manned Space Flight
Network relay was deactivated. All communications with the lunar module were accomplished using the
VHF. Just prior to insertion, VHF ranging was activated. Several resets were required before the ranging
was locked, and subsequently, lock was broken only once.
After insertion, a lunar module state vector was uplinked from the ground and an automatic
maneuver was made to the rendezvous tracking attitude. The rendezvous was completed using a
minimum-key-stroke (automatic sequencing) computer program. This program was new for this
flight, and was designed to relieve the Command Module Pilot's workload. The computer
automatically sequenced through the rendezvous maneuvers and tracking periods. It was initiated at
the pre-terminal phase initiation program and was terminated with the final rendezvous computer
program, which maneuvered the command and service module to the desired tracking attitude just
prior to docking. The program functioned as anticipated and allowed the Command Module Pilot
much greater time for optical tracking and systems monitoring.
There was same difficulty at first in actually seeing the lunar module tracking light because the
lunar module was not centered in the scanning telescope. After going into darkness, the light was
observed at about 15 degrees from the center of the telescope. After two marks were taken, the
optics tracked the lunar module in the center of the sextant. A total of 18 optical and 19 VHF marks
were taken before the final solution was initiated. The maneuver to the terminal phase initiate attitude
was a small maneuver of approximately 20 to 30 degrees in pitch. After the lunar module performed
the terminal phase initiation maneuver, the actual velocity changes were inserted into the computer.
The command and service module then was maneuvered automatically to the tracking attitude. Ten
optics and nine VHF marks were taken prior to the first midcourse correction and 18 optics and 11
VHF marks were taken prior to the second midcourse correction. All solutions were compared with
the lunar module solutions and were within the prescribed limits. The lunar module subsequently
accomplished the maneuvers based on its own solutions.
9.10.3 Docking and Crew Transfer
Beginning at terminal phase finalization, the spacecraft was maneuvered
to the crew-optical-alignment-sight tracking attitude to monitor the lunar
module and to verify line-of-sight rates. The lunar module assumed a station
keeping position with the command and service module and a maneuver was
initiated to allow photographs to be taken of the scientific instrument
module bay. After this was accomplished, the spacecraft were maneuvered to
the docking attitude. The docking was initiated and completed by the command
and service module. Again, the closing rates were approximately 0.1 ft/sec,
and the docking was completed by thrusting along the longitudinal axis on
contact until capture latch engagement was indicated. After the capture
latches were engaged and the attitudes were stabilized, the probe was
retracted and a hard dock was accomplished.
Several operations were initiated almost simultaneously after the docking.
The scientific instrument module bay experiments were activated and operated
throughout the time of transfer of equipment from the lunar module to the
command and service module. The experiments operations hindered the transfer to
some extent because the Command Module Pilot was required to monitor and
observe the scientific instrument panel in the command and service module.
However, the transfer was successfully completed and all transfer bags were
stowed in the proper locations. The lunar module crew transferred back into the
command and service module and preparations were made for undocking.
9.11 POST-DOCKING LUNAR ORBITAL OPERATIONS
9.11.1 Lunar Module Jettison
After all equipment was stowed, the crew donned their helmets and gloves
and prepared the tunnel for lunar module Jettison. Some difficulty was
experienced with venting the pressure in the tunnel. The differential
pressure across the tunnel hatch would not increase as expected. The hatch
was removed and the seals on both the lunar module hatch and the command
module hatch were checked. Both hatches were replaced and the differential
pressure check was completed satisfactorily. A pressure suit integrity check
was then accomplished; again, with some difficulty. The crew considered that
the liquid cooled garment connector was responsible for the failure of one of
the suits to pressurize properly, so a plug was inserted into the Commander's
suit. After the plug was installed and the suits were rezipped, the suit
circuit pressure integrity check was accomplished normally. Because
of the difficulty with the tunnel and with the suit circuit
integrity check, the lunar module jettison was delayed approximately one
revolution, after which it was accomplished normally. However, because of
the difference in orbital position from the planned position at the time of
the lunar module jettision, the separation maneuver was recomputed to assure
a positive separation distance. This was accomplished about 20 minutes after
jettision and all subsequent events were nominal.
9.11.2 Flight Plan Updating
After rendezvous and with all three crewmen aboard the command and
service module, the flight plan was updated to utilize the full capability of
the scientific instrument module bay. The flight plan changes were
considerable, but with one crewman free to copy the updates, the other two
crewmen were available to monitor and perform the scientific instrument
module activities. This meant that all three crewmen were utilized a good
percentage of the time. The operation was performed satisfactorily and the
real-time changing of the flight plan was accomplished without difficulty.
The philosophy that there would be no changes in the flight plan during the
solo operations and that the flight plan would be subject to real-time change
when all three crewmen were aboard was satisfactory.
9.11.3 Maneuvers
Prior to the transearth injection maneuver, an orbital shaping maneuver
was performed to launch the subsatellite into an orbit guaranteeing a long
lifetime. This was a relatively short thrusting maneuver and was
accomplished using service propulsion system bank B. The subsatellite was
jettisoned as scheduled and it was observed approximately 15 to 20 feet away
from the spacecraft. All arms were extended and it was rotating with a
coning angle of approximately 10 degrees.
The next maneuver was the transearth injection maneuver which was
accomplished without difficulty. The service propulsion system was again
activated by the special procedure. Gimbal position indications were very
smooth and there was very little attitude excursion. The maneuver was
completed nominally.
9.11.4 Command and Service Module Housekeeping
Particular emphasis was placed on housekeeping throughout the flight
in order to maintain organization within the command module crew
compartment with the additional stowage requirements for the Apollo 15
mission. Normal cabin living activities required more time than anticipated
preflight because of additional equipment, onboard stowage conditions, new
pressure suits, a strict adherence to nutrition schedules, and limitations
on overboard dump periods. The most efficient manner of completing these
activities was to perform all cleaning, dumping, canister change, and
chlorination operations just prior to a rest period, exclusive of any
scientific instrument module activities. Similarly, an exclusive waking and
eat period just after the rest period and prior to any other activities
(such as scientific instrument module activation and flight plan updates)
conforms to normal daily activities on earth and results in far more
efficient utilization of time during flight.
9.12 TRANSEARTH FLIGHT OPERATIONS
9.12.1 Transearth Coast Extravehicular Activity
Approximately 16 hours after the transearth injection maneuver, the crew
had completed preparations for an extravehicular activity which was
specifically planned to retrieve the panoramic and mapping camera cassettes
from the scientific instrument module. The preparation for the extravehicular
activity was accomplished in a nominal fashion and required approximately 5
112 hours. Preparation of the command module was partially accomplished
during the night preceding the extravehicular activity and was completed
approximately 2 hours before the flight plan time for the event. This allowed
an unhurried, careful preparation of all equipment and resulted in an
extravehicular activity that was accomplished on time and without difficulty.
The final preparation associated with the extravehicular activity involved
the relocation of some rock bags and containers, removal of the center couch,
donning of pressure suits, suit integrity checks, and the donning of the
special extravehicular activity umbilical and pressure suit equipment by the
Command Module Pilot. This was accomplished satisfactorily per the check-
list. The spacecraft was maneuvered to the extravehicular activity sun-angle
attitude which allowed illumination of the scientific instrument module bay,
while insuring that the sun did not shine directly into the command module
hatch. In this attitude the sun angle was low with respect to the scientific
instrument module, but reflections in and around the module illuminated all
of the equipment. After side hatch opening, the television and 16-mm cameras
were installed on the hatch to record the extravehicular activity. The 16-mm
camera operated for only 3 or 4 frames and produced only one recoverable
picture
(
fig. 9-6).
The camera had apparently been turned on and then
inadvertently turned off after a three-second interval while set at a frame
rate of one frame per second. The television camera operated properly. The
Command Module Pilot proceeded to the scientific instrument module bay in a
fashion similar to that used during training. The operation required about 16
minutes and was completed in an efficient manner even though an off-nominal
condition existed in that the mapping camera was extended and could not be
retracted. The panoramic camera cassette
was returned to the hatch and was tethered inside the command module. The
mapping camera cassette was returned on the second trip. Because of the
difficulty with the mass spectrometer boom, and the mapping camera
extension and retraction mechanism, a third trip was made to the scientific
instrument module to investigate these pieces of equipment. The
spectrometer was observed to have retracted to the point of capture by the
guide pins in the carriage but had not retracted fully. No external jamming
of the mapping camera carriage was seen. One additional problem, associated
with the panoramic camera, was investigated during the third trip. The
panoramic camera velocity/altitude sensor malfunctioned during lunar orbit
operations. The sensor was examined and nothing was in the line of sight of
the velocity/altitude sensor to account for the failure. Following the
extravehicular activity, the Command Module Pilot ingressed, the hatch was
closed, and the command module was pressurized using the three 1-pound
oxygen bottles from the rapid repressurization system, the Command Module
Pilot's extravehicular umbilical flow, and the oxygen purge system.
9.12.2 Science and Photography
The instruments in the scientific instrument module were operated
during the transearth coast to obtain background data needed for
interpretation of data obtained in lunar orbit and to acquire information
on celestial sources. These operations, at times, required specific
attitude pointing, and at other times, were accomplished during passive
thermal control periods. The operations, although accomplished in large
part based upon real-time planning, posed no difficulty in adhering to the
preflight-planned timeline. During transearth flight, ultraviolet
photographs were taken of both the earth and the moon, star patterns were
photographed through the sextant, and photographs were taken in an attempt
to record the particulate matter around the spacecraft following a waste
water dumping operation.
9.12.3 Navigation
During transearth flight, a large portion of time was devoted to
cislunar midcourse navigation. This was done to demonstrate the capability
to perform onboard navigation to achieve safe entry conditions in the event
Manned Space Flight Network communications are lost. Calibrations having
been accomplished on translunar coast, the midcourse exercises were
performed, as closely as possible, according to the schedule in the
contingency checklist. This navigational exercise was accomplished by
maintaining a separate state vector stored in the command module computer
registers normally used for lunar module state vectors. It was discovered
that the navigation could, in fact, be performed onboard to at least
validate the state vector during a nominal transearth coast. The techniques
for accomplishing the cislunar sightings were essentially the same as had
been used during translunar coast. The earth at this time appeared as a very
thin crescent because of the earth-sun relationship, but the horizon was
easily discernible. The sightings were taken with the spacecraft in minimum-
impulse control, and all but the last set of sightings were accomplished
using uncoupled thrusters for attitude control. Low attitude rates were
maintained and the sightings were easier than had been experienced
preflight. The onboard state vector was maintained until just prior to entry
and it would have been satisfactory in the event that a loss of
communications had been experienced.
9.13 ENTRY AND LANDING
The preparation for entry was accomplished normally and the third
midcourse correction was performed to insure that the target point was
acceptable. In preparation for service module separation, all systems were
checked, chill-down of the spacecraft was accomplished as prescribed,
and the spacecraft was maneuvered to the service module jettison attitude.
The jettison was accomplished as planned. Entry was nominal, with the entry
interface occurring at the proper time. The entry monitor system indicated
0.05g at the expected time and the entry monitor system, the guidance and
navigation system, and the accelerometers were all in agreement during entry.
The lack of entry monitor system background lighting did not affect
observation of the scroll. The entry was normal, but during descent on the
main parachutes, one of the parachutes partially deflated. The main
parachutes deployed normally at 10 000 feet, and checklist items were
performed. However, following the reaction control system depletion firing,
the partially-deflated parachute was observed. The condition resulted in a
higher rate of descent than with three fully-inflated parachutes. Calls were
received from the recovery team indicating that the situation was being
observed by ground personnel. All checks subsequent to this were made
according to the checklist and, because of the higher rate of descent,
touchdown was accomplished about 32 seconds earlier than it would have with
all parachutes fully inflated. The landing loads were higher than normal;
however, it did not appear that the couch struts had stroked. The only
internal indication of a hard landing was that the crew optical alignment
sight was detached from its stowage bracket and fell to the aft bulkhead.
All events after landing were normal. The parachutes were released and,
because of the low wind condition, settled around the command module. The
recovery ship and forces were near the spacecraft at landing and recovery
operations were normal.
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