Payload fairing

Payload fairing is one of the main components of a launch vehicle. The fairing protects the payload during the ascent against the impact of the atmosphere: aerodynamic pressure and aerodynamic heating. More recently, an additional function is to maintain the cleanroom environment for precision instruments.

Outside the atmosphere the fairing is jettisoned, exposing the payload. At this moment mechanical shocks and a spike in acceleration may be observed.

The standard payload fairing is typically a cone-cylinder combination, due to aerodynamic considerations, however specialized fairing are in use as well. The fairing which upon jettisoning separates into two halves is called clamshell fairing.

In some cases the fairing may enclose both the payload and the fourth stage of the payload [ [http://module.smartech.gatech.edu/bitstream/1853/6262/1/AIAA-2002-5854.pdf] ]

If the payload is attached both to the booster's core structures and to the fairing, the payload may still be affected by fairing's bending loads, as well as inertia loads due to vibrations caused by gusts and buffeting. [Thomas P. Sarafin, Wiley J. (1995) "Spacecraft Structures and Mechanisms--from Concept to Launch", ISBN 0792334760 [http://books.google.com/books?id=UHLz5_kEEZ8C&pg=RA1-PA47&dq=%22payload+fairing%22&sig=3wasri4icCK3F1TrhWBm8ALeHco p. 47] ]

Manufacturers

*A Zurich-based Swiss company Contraves is the maker of fairings for Ariane, as part of the cooperation within the European space programme. [ Brian Harvey, "Europe's Space Programme: To Ariane and Beyond", ISBN 1852337222, p. 150]

References