Landing the Lunar Excursion Module: Astronaut Training Simulation

In summary, as a trainee astronaut, you are tasked with landing a lunar excursion module (LEM) on the surface of the Moon in a simulation. The LEM has two rocket engines that typically point at angles of 22.0° in opposite directions from the negative y-axis and generate equal amounts of thrust. However, in an "accident" intended to test your skills, the right engine is bent to a 39.0° angle. In the first exercise, you must set the force from the right engine to balance the horizontal forces and land the LEM gently on the landing pad. In the second, more difficult exercise, you must set the forces of both engines to achieve a net acceleration directly upward of 4.
  • #1
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You are in training to be an astronaut. In one of your training simulations, your goal is to land a lunar excursion module (LEM) on the surface of the Moon. This LEM has two rocket engines attached to the center of the craft. The engines typically point at angles of 22.0° in opposite directions from the negative y-axis and they generate equal amounts of thrust. This means that as they fire, they provide a combined upward force that does not cause the rocket to move to the right or left.

In an “accident” intended to test your astronaut skills, the right rocket (labeled B) is bent to a 39.0° angle. The illustration to the right shows these two angles. In spite of this problem, you are still expected to guide the LEM straight down.

There are two levels in this exercise. In the first, the module is moving downward toward the landing pad as the simulation starts. In this “emergency,” the amount of thrust force from the left engine, labeled A, is jammed at 35,600 N.

You are allowed to set the amount of force from the right engine. You need to set this amount so there is no net horizontal force. If you set engine B’s force this way, you will land the LEM gently onto the landing pad. Small attitude rockets at the top of the LEM will keep it from rotating, but it will drift left or right if you enter the wrong values.

To accomplish your first mission, compute the force needed from the right engine and set that value to the nearest 100 N in the simulation.

The second exercise is harder and is optional. In the second simulation, the LEM is again moving downward toward the landing pad. You need to set the forces of both engines to achieve a net acceleration directly upward of 4.12 m/s2. The mass of the module is 8910 kg, and it does not change significantly as the engines burn fuel. As an astronaut, you know that the rate of acceleration due to the Moon's gravity is 1.62 m/s2.

To solve this problem, first calculate the total vertical force that should be provided by the engines to counter the Moon's gravity and provide a net upward acceleration of 4.12 m/s2. This will give you one equation involving the two unknown engine forces. The horizontal components of the misaligned engine forces must still balance so that the LEM stays on course. This gives you another equation. Solve the two equations and enter the force values to the nearest 100 N.

Please help. I do not know where to start. Thanks!
 
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  • #2
For the first problem:

Force A Horizontal = 35,600 * sin(22)
Force B Horizontal = ForceB * sin(39)

Force B = 35,600*sin(22)/sin(39)

For the second problem:

I think you can just add the accelerations to get 5.74m/s^2. Might want to check that part.

Next calculate the force you'll need F = m*a

F = 8910 * 5.74
F = 51143.4

So your two equations are then:
Vertical:
51143.4 = ForceA*cos(22) + ForceB*cos(39)
Horizontal:
0 = ForceA*sin(22) + ForceB*cos(39)

If you can't solve this system of equations, then you are in real trouble. Good luck. :)
 

Related to Landing the Lunar Excursion Module: Astronaut Training Simulation

1. How realistic is the simulation in training astronauts for landing the Lunar Excursion Module?

The simulation is designed to be as realistic as possible, incorporating real data and physics from previous lunar missions. It also includes various scenarios and challenges that astronauts may face during an actual landing, making it a valuable training tool.

2. What skills and knowledge are required for astronauts to successfully land the Lunar Excursion Module?

Astronauts must have a thorough understanding of the lunar environment, as well as the capabilities and limitations of the Lunar Excursion Module. They must also possess strong communication and teamwork skills in order to work effectively with their crewmates during the landing process.

3. How does the simulator prepare astronauts for emergency situations during the landing process?

The simulator includes various emergency scenarios, such as system failures and unexpected obstacles, to test and train astronauts' ability to think quickly and make critical decisions under pressure. This helps them to be prepared for any potential emergencies during an actual lunar landing.

4. Can the simulator accurately simulate the experience of landing on the moon?

While the simulator cannot replicate the exact physical and psychological experience of landing on the moon, it provides a realistic simulation of the process and challenges that astronauts may encounter. This helps to build muscle memory and familiarize astronauts with the steps and procedures required for a successful landing.

5. How has the simulator improved over time with advancements in technology?

The simulator has evolved significantly with advancements in technology, allowing for more realistic and detailed simulations. This includes improved graphics, more accurate data, and the ability to simulate a wider range of scenarios and environments, making it an even more valuable tool for astronaut training.

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