A critical component of crewed spacecraft, the launch abort system (LAS), allows for rescue of the crew in the event of a catastrophic malfunction while the spacecraft is sitting on the launch pad or on its way into orbit. For a successful rescue, however, the LAS must perform several critical maneuvers in rapid-fire succession. First, the launch abort motors must be powerful enough to fly the fairing and crew module (CM) to a safe distance away from the launch vehicle. Next, it must reorient and fly in a carefully controlled heat shield-forward attitude. Finally, it must release the CM, enabling the CM’s parachute
landing system to deploy for a safe return of the crew.
To view the complete article, click the document below:
Additional resources: