Application of Space Shuttle Project HERCULES imagery in the investigation of ship cloud tracks

Abstract

An assessment is made as to the utility obtained via the Project HERCULES electronic still camera system, utilized onboard the Space Shuttle, toward the MAST Space Test Program investigation of ship-induced cloud tracks. Project HERCULES and MAST concepts are described. A detailed discussion is presented of the integration requirements, mission conduct, and payload support procedures involved in using the HERCULES system during the STS-56 mission to image potential shiptrack areas and Naval-related sites. Five HERCULES imagery cases are analyze with feature measurements. Alternate camera systems are described, and then compared with the HERCULES system. Recommendations are made for the MAST payload. Although utility is seen in the geolocation and digital format offered by HERCULES images, the present configuration permits only limited use in the shiptrack and Naval-related application. However, a firm procedural knowledge-base has been established for the MAST experiment