seads

The SEADS nosecap on the orbiter Columbia contains 14 penetration assemblies, each containing a small hole through which the nosecap surface air pressure is sensed. Measurement of the pressure levels and distribution allows post-flight determination of vehicle attitude and atmospheric density during entry. SEADS, which has flown on four previous flights of Columbia, operates in an altitude range of 300,000 feet to landing. Paul M. Siemers III, Langley Research Center, Hampton, Va., is the principal investigator.