Sounding rocket payload electrical systems designs system: a systems approach applied to the DIONISYS payload

Abstract

Documentation of a comprehensive sounding rocket payload electrical system design methodology is needed by the Alaska Student Rocket Program (ASRP) in order to allow future student designers to build upon the knowledge and experience developed on previous sounding rocket missions, rather than rediscover valuable techniques that were never documented. A systems approach to sounding rocket payload design is presented and supported by a detailed presentation and analysis of the Hawkins/30.047UO 'DIONISYS' (D-region IONIzation measurement SYStem) payload design that was used to measure the D-Region ionization density at high latitudes. Fabrication techniques and test methods that ensure the payload will survive the launch environment are also presented, as well as a post-flight analysis of the successfully launched and recovered payload.