protection by fixed-density optical filters was explored.
Two types of de-
velopmental protective electronic shutters were fleld-tested.
Results Tr
demonstrated_that the blink
reflex does not protect against chorioretinal’ burns. The J_
74
caused retinal lesions at 8.1 statute miles. The device of intermeuiate
yield,
1 produced burns at 7.6 statute miles but not as far as 14.4
miles. Burfs were not obtained from devices *
yield at distances
of 12.9 and 21.6 miles. The lower effective range of barning at the PPG
is attributed to higher atmosphcric attenuation from excessive humidity and
salt spray from the reefs. Note {s made that additional information is
needeq in order to determine the limiting distance for retinal burns at
i\and, especially, higher yields. Both the
_{devices
nroduced retinal burns in two of the efght animals exposed to only the first
pulse. Both detonations produced burns during the second pulse.
The optical filters tested at near-thresh<ld distances prevented retinal
burns. At intermediate distance, filters reduced the incidence anc severity
of the lesions. The results obtained on protective shutters were inconclusive
but can guide future development.
2.1.5
Program 5, Aircraft Structures
Program 5 included nine projects primarily concerned with the deter-
minution of the capability to deliver nuclear weapons of six Air Force types
of aircraft and one Navy aircraft. Cne project, sponsored by the AFCRC,
provided thermal-measurement support, and another will provide data or. the
thermal lethality of a nuclear detcnation to certain basic missile structures
and materials. Secondary objectives of the aircraft projects were to (1) ob-
tain data for basic research and design of future aircraft, ana (2) verify or
correct the present analytical methods for the prediction of weapon-effect
inputs and the resultant responses by the aircraft structure.
A test of an Air Force B-47 successfully obtained data for wirgbending loads from 39 to 91 per cent of design limit and temperatures of
up to 550°F on thin-skinned control surfaces by the use of high-absorptivity
paints. Some measurements of the effects of side loads on the aircraft
structure were also made. Correction of the Weapon Delivery Haidbvok for
the B-47 will be made after data evaluation.
A test of an Air Force B-52 proved its capability to deliver high-yield
nuclear weapons. Extensive thermal, overpressure, and gust measurements
will result in fairly clear definition of the safe-delivery envelopes. It
appears that 0.9 psi will be the limiting overpressure, instead of 0.° psi as
had been predicted rrior to the test series. The ability to predict structural
eon"
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