Asri-unix.1251
net.space
utzoo!decvax!cca!sri-unix!csin!cjh@CCA-UNIX
Tue Apr 20 07:59:15 1982
Shuttle return of MX's
Here's a question that could be good for several weeks of wrangling before
someone actually comes up with the beginnings of a factual answer. There has
been a proposal that MX's could be parked in orbit in the course of an alert,
then brought down on the USSR if there really was an attack, or brought back
by Shuttle if it was a false alarm. The question is, is this really
practicable?
Breaking this down into more manageable questions:
1. How much of the MX would have to be left in orbit to assure precise
aiming if it is to be used? (need both mass and dimensions)
2. How many of these [upper stages] could be fitted into a Shuttle cargo
bay (need both packing and the safe landing weight of the Shuttle)
3. If we throw away the guidance section and just bring back the warheads,
what does this do to (2)? Would this be reasonable in terms of the work that
would be necessary on the ground to return the warheads to ready status?
4. How difficult would (3) be in zero-gee? (Figure that working with nuclear
warheads requires much greater precautions than the sample construction work
that has been done in earthbound tanks of water.)
Have fun!
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