Rocket Health Monitoring
The next generation military and commercial space lift systems will utilize reusable, fly-back first stage boosters to reduce cost. These systems must be quickly turned around for subsequent missions. Reliable, nonintrusive exhaust plume health monitoring is desirable to support this need. The technology developed under a current project at OptoKnowledge will enable the detection of metallic species, which is an indication of engine wear and an early precursor to a catastrophic failure. An onboard Optical System is being investigated to provided the enhanced diagnostics to improve safety and reduce maintenance requirements on reusable launch vehicles.
