Hypervelocity Shock Tube
Photograph Number P-2643A

The 40-foot Hypervelocity Shock Tube, seen in this 1963 photo, was used to simulate the incredible heat experienced by a spacecraft as it decelerated into the atmosphere of a planet such as Venus or Mars. The nitrogen, carbon dioxide and argon in the tube reached a temperature of 30,000 degrees Fahrenheit as a shock wave passed by small heat-sensitive gauges and a high-speed camera recorded the effect.

An article in the November 1963 issue of Lab-Oratory described in more detail the shock tube facility and test procedures.

For more information about the history of JPL, contact the JPL Archives.

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