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PO REG1ST"-----

"THE MEANDERINGS OF A\ WEAPON ORIENTED MIND ~

WHEN APPLIED\ IN A VACUUM ___-
SUCH AS ON THE MOON" \UJ

HEADQUARTERS
U.S. ARMY WEAPONS COMMAND
ROCK ISLAND, ILL.
652156
COP'!.:Lf_OF 50 COPIES
 "THE MEANDERINGS OF A WEAPON ORIENTED MIND

WHEN APPLIED IN A VACUUM

SUCH AS ON THE MOON"(U)

ROCK ISLAND, ILL.

JUNE 1965
CLASSIFIED llYM::i;;{~~
SUB.JECT 'fO GENERAL DLASSiF CATION
SCHEDf.H .E OF EXECUTIVE ORDER 11652
AUTOMA:i'ICALLY DOWNGHADED AT TWO YEAR
IN{rERVALS DECLASSIFIED ON DEC. 3l.L.:l.2i,.,

I'

i
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

Preface 1

Early Thoughts. 2

Corrected Thinking. 2

Discussion. 5

Conclusion. 8

Appendix I Ideas 9

Appendix II - Calculations 17

References. 23

ii
FRONTISPIECE

 PREFACE

(U) The purpose of this brochure is to stimulate the thinking of

weapon people all the way from those who are responsible for the

establishment of requirements, through those who are responsible for

funding, to the weapon designer himself.

(C) Although the primary purpose of man in space (on the moon or

other planets) will not be to fight, he requires the capability to

defend himself if necessary. There may be other countries desirous of

preventing u.s. access to the moon and other planets. If space is

truly for peace, we must be strong there just as we are on earth.

(C) Because of the entirely new and different environment and

conditions facing man in space, we cannot wait until the eleventh

hour to "crash" a weapon program through with any hope of success, for

we may even now be standing on the edge of the battleground of

Armageddon. To quote our President before he ascended to the

Presidency, "Space is infinite. lvian's knowledge of space is finite.

The sum of our understanding is not yet sufficient for us to comprehend

how vast the dimensions of our ignorance."

1
 EARLY THOUGHTS

(C) When first applying ground-bound weapon thinking to a lunar

atmosphere, one is liable to contemplate the worst that can happen.

For instance:

1. The temperature extremes of from -250 F. to t250 F.

would be impossible to meet with current propellants. Muzzle velocity

variations may be as high as 25 - 50%.

2. The high vacuum environment will cause metals to weld

together.

3. Lubricants will evaporate, leaving mechanisms unlubricated.

4. The low gravity of the moon means any weapon syst em

devised will have to be recoilless.

5. Materials will have a marked reduction in physical

properties due to the high vacuum and extreme temperatures.

6. A directed energy weapon, such as a laser, may be the

answer.
CORRECTED THINKING

(C) Discussions with personnel of the u.s. Air Force Materials

Laboratory, the u.s. Air Force Avionics Laboratory, the u.s. Army

~~teriel Command, and the Extraterrestrial Research Agency of the

Office of the Chief of Engineers, expelled some of the above as "old

wives' tales." For example :

1. Although the widely advertised temperatures of from

on the moon, they are

the approximate extremes reached on the surface at midday and midnight.

(Days and nights are two weeks long.) The surface of the moon is a
poor conductor of heat, consequently a little shade during the day and
earth light during the night, plus a reversible white and black um
brella may be sufficient to keep the temperature in the vicinity of
the spaee suit within limits of from -65 F. to fl25 to f16o F.
Assuming a direct proportion to the reflecting area, earth li ght onJJ
the moon will be sixtee.n times greater than moonlight on the earth+
2. Although it is reported that a high vacuum (and low tem
perature) causes the fusion of two similar metals, it should not be
overlooked that to accomplish it requires that these parts be clean,
free from oxidization, etc. Even with a clean surface, there are
coatings availab~e that can considerably reduce or eliminate this
effe~t. Therefore, this phenomena is not considered to be a serious
problem. 'rhe coefficient of friction increases from two to six times
or more in such an atmosphere and must, therefore, be considered;o but
these effects are not insurmountable.
3 Lubricants do indeed evaporate in a vacuum, but it has
been observe d that there are bearings (for example) which have been
lubr.iea.ted on earth that function very well for long periods of time
in space without additional lubrication. This leads scientists to
the postulation that perhaps an item carries its own atmosphere with
it through space or that the atmosphere next to a space vehicle is
different from that at same discrete distance. An attempt to measure

c
this was at one time planned for the Manned Orbiting Iab. program,
but was eliminated due to its cost and the work being done on earth.
In general, however, for app.}.ication to the lubrication problems of
space mechanisms, the following conclusions regarding the affect
of surface films and their removal in vacuum are considered sig
nificant by the authors of the "Space Materials Handbook".
a. Where metal parts operate in contact with one
another, tenacious surface films that are not stripped off in
vacuum, and that offer some lubrication for the moving parts to
whiCh they are applied, should be used.
b. :Running metals in direct contact with one another
should be avoided, particularly i f the contacting metals are
mutually soluble in one another.
c. Where possible, materials that come .in contact
with each other should be dissimilar, e.g., a metal surface with a
plastic or a ceramic surface.
These conclusions can often be applied without muCh difficulty.
4. Materials do have a change in physical properties at
high vacuum and at the lunar temperature .extremes, but thea~ changes
can generally be predicted and the effects eliminated by proper

design, material selection' and the consideration of using the item

only once. The affect of a vacuum on metals . is not necessarily
deleterious. In fact, on the basis of .available data derived from
laboratory tests, unless the test specimen is altered in composition
or structure by diffusion inward of the gaseous environment, or outward

of hydrogen or other volatile constituents, it will be stronger in

vacuum than in gas. H~vever, except for fatigue life, no large

strengthening effect of vacuum on mechanical properties of metals

has been reported. This phenomena can aid the designer in keeping the

weapon weight at a minimum. Due to the high cost of transporting one

pound of material from the earth to the moon, the ultimate weight of

an item is a significant factor . in estimating its ultimate cost.

5. Although the moon does have a low gravitational effect

(l/6th that of the earth, or 5-37 ft/sec2) the weapon system used does

not need to be recoilless. It should, hoNever, have no more than

l/6th the tolerable recoil momentum acceptable on earth.

6. The laser, for practical application as a weapon, is

20 years away.
DISCUSSION

(C) Now that some of the first worries have been dispelled, one

should approach the problem of space weaponry with a clear unbiased

mind. One should recognize the differences in conditions, but not be

discouraged by extremes. Instead, a positive approach based on un

restricted thinking utilizing the experience gained in the space

program to date is the primary asset required in formulating the

weapon and vehicle requirements and concepts for use in an extra

terrestrial environment.
tllu~
~
. ~...
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>

{U) If we apply this type of thinking to some basic calculations

to obtain a feel for the lunar conditions and their effects we find
that due solely to the curvature of the moon (mean radius 1080 miles)
the 5 to 95 percentile man has an unrestricted maximum line of sight
of from 1~4 to 1.6 miles.
(c) Any projected object is subjected ,;to a downward pull due t o
the gravitational force of the moon at an acceleration of 5. 37
ft/sec2. An object (projectile, rocket, rock, sphere, flechette,

etc.) propelled horizontally from the shoulder of a man six feet tall
(shoulder approximately 5 feet above the surface) would impact the
surface after an uninterrupted flight of 2.73 times its velocity. For
a velocity of 3000 ft/sec the impact point would be 8190 feet or about
2500 meters. It is of more than casual interest to note that due to
the lack of atmosphere on the moon, the initial velocity which is
imparted to an object is retained throughout its flight. The only
force acting upon it is the gravitational attraction of the moon
itself. Therefore, the maximum range of a projected object at a
velocity of 3000 ft/sec is about 320 miles when propelled at an
angle of 45 degrees with the lunar surface. Its maximum ordinate is
approximately 80 miles above the surface.
(U) After the initial shock of these figures wears off, we
find that a quick check with a good reference discloses that the
escape velocity on the moon is 2.4 kilometers per sec, which converts
to 7900 feet per second, or about 54oo miles per hour. The orbital
velocity at or near the lunar surface can then be calculated as
7900~~ 56o0 feet per sec. These velocities are both attainable
within the present state-of-the-art. It follows, then, that to keep
from filling the space around the moon with flying objects (space
debris) the velocity of any object projected thereon should be kept
below 5500 ft/sec 1 and possibly initially much below this in order to
keep the maximum range under control.
(U) To get an idea of sighting requirements, it is easily
calculated that an object projected bovizontally at 3000 ft/sec from
five feet above the lunar surface will experience a drop of only
2.4 inches in 100 meters. A complex set of sights does not therefore
appear to be required.
(C) Although the shape of an object theoretically does not
affect its range or velocity on the moon, the shape does have its
affect on penetration. A high sectional density may be desirable
for maximum penetration. Initia,.lly1 it might be sufficient to
penetrate a space suit since the suit would then suddenly decompress.

However, a low level penetrator can be easily defeated, and vehicles

of same form will probably soon appear after the first landings
(example: NASA's Lunar Roving Vehicle). It seems only logical
then that the first defensive personnel weapon carried to the moon
should have a capability of penetrating (at the minimum) thin skinned
vehicles. Following along this thought path further, it seems only
logical and economical that the first weapon on the moon have the
u
highest penetrating capability that the state-of-the-art can provide

within weight and design limitations. It should be kept in mind

here that penetration and lethality on the moon are almost synonymous

since penetration of a pressurized vessel on the moon may be tanta

mount to defeating it.

(C) It would seem desirable, if not required, t hat the weapon

also have a capability in an environment such as the earth's or that

which will be found in a space station or inside a lunar base. In

Appendix I are some ideas whose feasibili ties have not been detennined

and are presented here solely to stimulate thinking.

CONCLUSION

(C) If the moon and other planets are explored and possibly

colonized, the world could eventually see a second evolution of

weaponry and protection therefrom. Visualize starting with a weapon

capable of penetrating thin skinned vehicles. The vehicles then get

thicker skin. The weapons then attain a greater penetrating

capability. The vehicles get even thicker skinned until the weight

and cost thereof becomes insurmountable. The weapons attain longer

ranges, etc., etc., etc. This proceeds through the mortar, howitzer,

gun and tank stages until eventually you have missiles, antimissiles

and nuclear weapons much as the earth had prior to World War III.
 POSSIBLE WEAPON CONCEPTS

WHOSE FEASIBILIT IE S HAVE NOT BEEN DETERMINED

BUT ARE PRESENTED AS IDEAS TO STIMULATE THINKING

. 4~ ~ ~
"'""ff~

9
 CHARACTERISTICS

Method of Propulsion Propellant

Projectile Weight. o .0027 lb.
Projectile Length. .78 in.
Projectile Diameter. .14 in.
Muzzle Velocity o 3000-4ooo fps
Weapon Weight 2-4 lbs.
Rate of fire Semiautomatic
Nr. of Rounds. 30-50
Weapon Length. 18-24 in.
Weapon Width o 1.5 in.
Weapon Height. o 4-6 in.
 SPIN/FIN STABILIZED SAUSAGE GUN

FINS

CHARACTERISTICS

Method of Propulsion. Propellant

Projectile Weight 1-2 Grains
Muzzle Velocity 3000-4ooo fps
Weapon Weight 1 l b or less
Method of Ignition Electrical
Rate of Fire Semiautomatic
Nr. of Rounds 19 to 37
Length. 6-8 in.
Diameter. 1-1.5 in.
Stabilization (Spin in Vacuum
(Fin in an Atmosphere
u
, <ij

SAUSAGE GUN #2

GAS OR PROPELIANT ,

CHARACTERISTICS

Method of Propulsion. Gas or Propellant

Projectile Weight 005 lb.
Projectile Diameter 0.25 in.
Muzzle Velocity 3000 fps
Weapon Weight 1 lb. or less
Nr. of Rounds 19 to 37
Length. 6-8 in.
Diameter 1-1.5 in.
Method of Firing. (Puncturing of Seal or
(Ignition of Propellant

12

 ..
DIRECTED GAS WEAPON FOR CLOSE IN FIGHTING

CHARACTERISTICS

Range 3-6 ft.

Lethal Agent .. Directed Oases from High
Explosive Detonation
Rate of Fire.
Nr. of Shots.
... Single Shot or Semiautomatic
1 to 7
Weapon Weight ..... 1 to 2 lbs.
Weapon Length 4 to 5 in.
Weapon Diameter .... 1.5 in.

13

 SPRING PROPELLED SPHERICAL PROJECTILE

CHARACTERISTICS

Method of Propulsion Compressed Spring

Projectile Weight
Projectile Diameter
Muzzle Velocity
..
......
0.0012 lb.
0.20 in.
1000-1500 fps
Weapon Weight. 3-6 lbs.
Nr. of Rounds 20-50 rounds
Length 18-24 in.
Width 1.5 in.
Height 6 in.

14

 GAS CARTRIDGE GUN

NCl

CHARACTERISTICS

Method of Propulsion Gas

Projectile Weight. 0.0012 lb.
Projectile Diameter. 0.33 in.

Muzzle Velocity. 1000-1500 fps

Weapon Weight. 2 lbs.

Nr. of' Rounds 25

I..ength . 8 in.

Widt.h . 0.5 in.

Height . . ~ . . . 35 in.
Pressure ~ 2000 psi
 GAS OPERATED NEEDLE GUN

GAS CARTRIDGE

CHARACTERISTICS

Method of Propulsion Gas

Projectile Weight. .0012 lb.
Projectile Diameter. .20 in.
Muzzle Velocity. 1000-1500 fps
Weapon Weight. 2 lbs.
Nr. of Rounds. 25
Length 12-16 in.
Width. 1.5 - 2.0 in.
Height . . . . 6 in.
Pressure . 2000 psi

16

 .-~' ....
-~, ~

APPENDIX II

CALCUIA TIONS

17

 RANGE ESTIMATION CALCULATIONS

(U) A missile (projectile, rocket, etc.) is subjected to a force

due to the gravitational pull of ~ 5.37 ft/sec 2

(C) A missile propelled hori zontally from the shoulder of a six

foot man (shoulder approximately 5 feet above surface) would then

impact the surface (with uninterrupted flight) at a distance determined

by

where v = Velocity of missile

y = Vertical distance (5')

g = Moon's gravitational acceleration

d2 =~7
v2 = 7 .45 v2

d = 2. 73 v
A velocity of 3000 ft/sec is not uncommon or difficult to obtain,

the r efore

d = ( 2 . 73 )(3000 ) = 8190 ft.

Th is is approximatel ;y the same di sta nce the 5-95 percentile man can see.
2
MaximU<"ll ra Lge is u)( g ) sin 2 ~

R : 9 ,000 ,000 (1)

( 3) ( 5 -37)

R = 558, 659 yd s .

R = 317.4 miles

v2

Ivfaximum he i ght is 2 g sin 2 oo<:.

18

 6
( 5) : 4.5 X 10
10.74

h 418J994 ft.

h = 79 . 3~ miles
Average drop of a pro.iectile at 3000 f:ps

5'
8200 feet

.2_ 0.06 feet

drop per 100 feet = 82 .72 inches

drop per 100 meters= (.72)(3.28) = 2.36 inches

Orbiting velocity at surface of moon

Escape velocity of moon = 2,4oo meters/sec

7,872 ft per sec

Orbiting velocity 2 vif0 = I~~i4 feet/sec

Oroiting velocity = 5567 ft/sec

 PENETRATION AND DIAMETER CALCULATION OF A SPHERE

(C) If 3 lb-sec is the impulse that can be acceptable on earth,

then it seems reasonable that since the earth's gravity ratio to the

moon's is 6 to 1, then the acceptable level of 3/6 or 0.5 lb-sec

impulse is the acceptable man can tolerate on the moon.

(C) The diameter of a spherical projectile to stay within this

limit is calculated at two velocity levels.

Impulse F t =M V

w
3000
32.2

For V = 3000 fps

W= (.5)(32.2)/3000 = .00536 lbs.

For V = ;zooo fps

w= ( 5) ( 32 2 ) I 5ooo = 00322 lbs

Vol of sphere =~ :
1Lf = .5236d3
3
de nsity of steel = 0.283 lb/in3

(Vol)(density) = wt.

For V : jOOO fps

(.5236d )(.283) = .00536

d3 = 00 536
.14818
= .03617

d = -33 in.

For v ;zooo fps

d3 = :~~~~g = .02173

d = .279 in.
If a more dense material such as tungsten is used (density .7 or

2.47 times steel) very little reduction in diameter is required.

For V = 3000 fps

(.5236d3) ( 7) 00536

d .245 in.
or a reduction of .085 in. diameter or .043 in. radius

The critical velocity for perforating .415 in. of

homogeneous steel armor by a 0.4 in. tungsten sphere is 2500 fps at

0 obliquity (wt. =161.1 grains = .023 lbsL

the K.E. : ~ M v2

.. (l.) (.023) (2500)2

2 32.2
: , f;~~i 625 X 104

= 2232 ft-lbs.
The K.E. of a .245 in. diameter sphere at 3000 ft/sec

K.E. - 1M y
2
- 2

<-~~:i6) (3000) 2

= .o~':IT 9 X 10 6

749 ft-lbs.
Penetration is roughly proportional to KE. Therefore, the .245
tungsten sphere would penetrate
749 ) (.415) = .14 in.
( 2232
 PRESSURE REQUIRED FROM COMPRESSED GAS

The acceleration of a projectile over a given distance attaining a

specific velocity is given b y:

6 v2
a = s

2
a __ 6 (15oo)
b 2.25 x 10
6 ft ; sec 2

where velocity = 1500 ft/sec

and projectile travel =6 inches

The force acting to product this acceleration is given b y

Where w = projectile weight = .0012 lbs

(.0012)(2.25 X 106) = 161 lbs
F 32.2
The average pressure required to generate this force is

p = AF- 161 = 1865 psi

where A = cross sectional area of projectile

 REFERENCES

GARDE Technical Report 501, entitled "On the Perforation of Thin

Armoured Target by Dense Spherical Pro~jectiles" (U) by P. :!'; . Brooks

of the Canadian Armament Research and Development Establishment,

dated September 1964.

Technical Report No. ATL-TR-64-77, dated November 1964, entitled,

"Study of Lethalit ;y of Hollow Spheres" (U), Directorate of Arr:J.ameat

Development, Detachment 4, Research and Tecl:1nology Divi sion, Air

Force Systems Command, Eglin Air Force Base, Florida.

'r hesis Nr. 68, entitled "The Space problem" dated 15 April 196o

a r1d prepared b:, Colonel H. B. KuchemaE, .Jr. USAF, Industrial College

of the Armed Forces, Washington, D.C.

WADD Technical Report 6o-627, dated August 19ED, entitled

"Cri.teria for Environme .:1tal Analysis of >-leapon Systems" prepared for

the ! right Air Development Division by Charles J. Eiwen and David E.

winer of the American Machine and Foundry Co.

Technical Documentary Report No. ML-TDR-64-40, dated January

1965, entitled "Space Materials Handbook Second Edition", published

by the Air Force Materials Laboratory at Wright Patterson Air Force

Base, Ohio

Report APGC-TR-6o- 3, dated Janl.lB.ry 196o, entitled "Explosives

Applications in Outer Space" by Charles w. Plummer, The American

Potash and Chemical Corporation prepared for Air Proving Ground

Center, Eglin Air Force Base, Florida.

23

 COMBINED ARMS RESEARCH LIBRARY

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