From: utzoo!miles
Newsgroups: net.columbia
Title: Infrared study of space shuttles. 
Article-I.D.: utzoo.2538
Posted: Tue Oct 19 11:45:45 1982
Received: Tue Oct 19 11:45:45 1982


	NASA is now using computer assisted infrared heat detection systems to
	take a better look at the heat distribution on the shuttles on re-
	entry. This technique allows engineers to see where the most critical
	'hot spots' on the shuttle occur, how efficiently the tiles are
	operating, and wether any changes, esp. of aerodynamic or thermodynamic
	design of the shuttle are needed. No doubt a lot can be learned from
	these studies to improve the efficiency of operation of shuttles, and
	perhaps even reduce maintainance costs.

		R.S.