MIL-HDBK-762

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                   MIL-HDBK-762, MILITARY HANDBOOK: DESIGN OF AERODYNAMICALLY STABILIZED FREE ROCKETS (17 JUL 1990)., This chapter introduces the handbook. Rocket systems are presented in two broad classes: military rocket systems and research rocket systems. Military rocket systems are discussed in terms of their application in a battle environment. Research rocket systems are discussed in terms of the application to provide the means of placing data gathering equipment into a desired environment. Operational modes for the rocket systems are described. Finally, brief descriptions of the remaining chapters and the appendices are given. Aerodynamically stabilized free rockets offer relatively simple, reliable, small, low-cost means for delivering payloads and, when great accuracy is not required, are often the optimum systems. This handbook provides engineering design information and data for such rockets. Primarily, this handbook is intended to cover the conceptual and preliminary design phases; however, reference is made to the technical approaches and computer programs required for the system development phase. The material includes operational and interface requirements as they influence the design of the total weapon system. The handbook provides 1. The preliminary design engineer with specific design information and data useful in the rapid response situations required of preliminary design activities 2. The specialist in each technical area an introduction to the other disciplines in terms of data requirements and trade-off studies that must be performed. Free flight rockets are those rockets that do not have an in-flight guidance system; they are aimed, guided, or directed by the launching device. These launchers usually have a launching rail or tube to provide initial direction to the rocket. Free flight rockets are of two basic kinds?spin stabilized and aerodynamically stabilized. The spin stabilized rocket, as the name implies, depends upon a high rate of spin and resulting gyroscopic moments to oppose disturbances. The aerodynamically stabilized rocket depends upon aerodynamic forces on the body and fins to oppose disturbing forces. The aerodynamically stabilized rocket generally employs some spin to minimize dispersion caused by nonsymmetrical body characteristics (body asymmetries, fin misalignment, thrust misalignment, etc.). The data and concepts presented in this handbook are limited to aerodynamically stabilized free flight rockets.