Analysis of jimsphere pairs for use in assessing space vehicle ascent capability

The purpose of this research was to develop a data base of paired detailed wind profiles for use in evaluating Shuttle Transportation System (STS) ascent capability. Since launch decision is based on a wind measured about 3.5 hours before launch, a data base of paired detailed profiles is needed. Method and technique on the reduction process and analysis is also presented. Guidelines used in selecting the pairs of profiles were established to insure a valid and representative data base, au values for 3.5 hours at 12 km altitude show 8 percent increase from the transition case to the winter case and 18 percent decrease from the transition case to the summer case, av values for 3.5 hours at 12 km altitude shows 12 percent increase from the transition case to the winter case and 17 percent decrease from the transition case to the summer case. A special feature of the 7- and 10.5-hour cases is that av increases by as much as 30 percent from the transition to the winter profiles. This large increase does not appear in the au data. Comparisons of the calculated values of 3.5- hour standard deviations of u and v with actual component deviations measured during Space Shuttle launch conditions confirm that the statistical values are representative.