Skylab payload shroud jettison tests

Abstract

The separation concept of the skylab payload shroud is presented, and its behavior in three full-scale jettison tests in vacuum is described. The shroud petal arresting mechanism is explained, as well as the primary and secondary data acquisition systems. The first two tests demonstrated the need for some structural design modifications although the separation process was satisfactory in each test. The third test, incorporating these design modifications, was satisfactory in all aspects of shroud performance.