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Can someone with some insight or relevant expertise explain why a "small explosive device" was the best way to detach? I would think there would be all sorts of
by sopooneo 12y ago
Can someone with some insight or relevant expertise explain why a "small explosive device" was the best way to detach? I would think there would be all sorts of mechanical hook/release devices already in existence, and designed for loads as big as him with his suit. Maybe they had to worry about ice binding such things shut?
But mostly, if you're strapped to tanks of pure oxygen, wouldn't you want to avoid proximity to any sort of combustion?
Please note that I am confident his choice here was the correct one, I just want to understand why.
- mturmon 12y agoSo-called "explosive bolts" (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pyrotechnic_fastener http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pyrotechnic_fastener) are very commonly used in spacecraft to separate various spacecraft components (e.g., rocket stages, or payload from shroud). I'm not familiar with the design considerations here, but lots of people remark that they seem like "the wrong solution". But, they are reliable, simple, and light weight.