NASA
CAPSULE
FLIGHT
OPERATIONS
MANUAL
CAPSULES 18 AND 19
15 JUNE 1960
INSERT LATEST CHANGED PAGES, DESTROY SUPERSEDED PAGES.
SECTION I
NORMAL PROCEDURES 1-1
SECTION II
EMERGENCY PROCEDURES 2-1
SECTION III
TROUBLE SHOOTING 3-1
INTRODUCTION
The detailed preparation required of the astronaut in attempting a mission of the magnitude and scope
of PROJECT MERCURY obviously cannot and need not be covered in a document of the handbook
type. Prior to any actual attempt to launch a manned capsule, many weeks will be spent by the
astronaut in an extensive training and familiarization program. The information contained in this
manual, therefore, will presuppose a detailed knowledge of the capsule systems by the astronaut, and
will be confined, for the most part, to procedural data. Detailed descriptions and operation of the
various capsule systems are contained in Service Engineering Department Report (SEDR) 104
"PROJECT MERCURY FAMILIARIZATION MANUAL".
SCOPE
NORMAL OPERATING PROCEDURES - This section will cover a complete normal mission, with
expanded checklist type instructions.
Table of Contents
1-7
PRE-LAUNCH
PRE-ENTRANCE
The Pre-Entrance checks are completed just prior to entering the capsule. The Jett Tower, Sep Capsule,
Snorkel, Main, and Reserve sequence override rings actuate squibs when pulled and have ground
safety pins installed when the squibs are installed.
ENTRANCE
As soon as the intercomm is checked, confirm all Pre-Entrance checks. When all suit connections are
completed, the ground crew performs a suit circuit leakage check, purges the suit system, and
disconnects the external oxygen supply. Remove the ground safety pins and give them to the ground
crew just prior to hatch installation.
INTERIOR INSPECTION
WARNING
Do not operate hand controller to prevent possible injury to personnel or damage to equipment by
the control jets.
1-8
ENTRANCE
PRE-ENTRANCE
ENTRANCE
INTERIOR INSPECTION
1-9
INTERIOR INSPECTION
1-10
INTERIOR INSPECTION
1-11
INTERIOR INSPECTION
1-12
COUNT DOWN
These checks will be read out by the test director. Call out the action as it is accomplished. The Escape
System Check is accomplished as soon as the gantry is clear while the PreLaunch Check is
accomplished after T-7 minutes.
Note
There will be some checks which require response to interrogation concerning various indicators
or operation of controls and switches as directed to prove the integrity of capsule systems. The
specific checks will be determined by the test director and are not listed here.
WARNING
The Squib switch must be in the ARM position before the escape system can receive power.
WARNING
Placing the Squib switch to the ARM position arms the Jett Retro button, Drogue button, and the
Main deploy ring allowing these override controls to operate WHENEVER they are actuated
REGARDLESS of the capsule condition or the phase of the mission.
1-13
COUNTDOWN
55. AC 'voltmeter - 115 VOLTS
AC voltmeter should read 115 volts with the
AC Volts switch in FANS or ASCS.
56. AC Volts switch - FANS
57. Stby Invert switch - AUTO
58. Cornm Audio volume wheels - AS DESIRED
59. UHF DF switch - NORM
60. UHF Select switch - HI PWR
61. Transmit switch - OFF
62. Beacon switch - GRND. COMD
63. All audio tone switches except 02 Press and Excess
Cabin H2O - ON
64. Warning Lights switch - BRIGHT
65. Main panel fuse switches - NO. I POSITION
66. Erner 02 lever - NORM (PULL INTO DETENT)
67. Suit Temperature selector - AS DESIRED
68. Cabin Temperature selector - AS DESIRED
69. Knife - STOWED
70. Food and water containers - SECURED
71. Waste container - SECURED
COUNT DOWN
1-14
COUNTDOWN
Pre-Launch Check
1-15
LAUNCH
During launch, the operation of the capsule is completely automatic. Therefore, the only action
required will be to monitor all instruments and warning lights to guard against a malfunction of some
component. Closely monitor the "Abort" warning light and actuate the abort handle if it illuminates. If
the elapsed time and the retrograde time to go clocks fail to start at launch, depress the Time Zero
button. Check that the "Jett Tower" telelight illuminates green 20 seconds after the booster engines
shut off and the "Sep Capsule" telelight illuminates green immediately after the sustainer engine shuts
off.
ORBIT
The orbit check list should be completed as soon as possible after attaining orbit.
WARNING
The Launch 02 ring must be pulled, the cabin pressure 5.0 +/- 1.0 psi, 02 partial pressure over 3.0
psi, and"02Press" warning light not Illuminated before opening the helmet faceplate.
The lap belt, chest strap, and leg straps may be loosened to provide greater comfort, but should not be
unfastened. If "Retro Cold" warning light illuminates, place the Retro Heat switch to CAP PWR until
the light goes out.
1-16
LAUNCH - ORBIT
LAUNCH
During launch, check that the time to go clock starts and monitor the "Abort" warning light, "Jett
Tower" telelight, and the "Sep Capsule" telelight.
ORBIT
NOTES
1-17
CAPSULE STABILIZATION
Automatic Mode
During all phases of normal operation, proper capsule attitude is maintained by the automatic
stabilization control system (ASCS).
Note
If ASCS a-c power has been interrupted, cage the gyros, level the capsule, and then uncage the
gyros before returning to the automatic mode.
Note
If the normal control system fails,the attitude indicating system may be unreliable since it is
slaved to the ASCS attitude gyros.
Fly-By-Wire Mode
The fly-by-wire mode generally would not be used in orbit unless manual control is required and the
manual mode is Inoperative or manual fuel is low. The fly-by-wire mode is used with the rate damping
or manual modes if manual control is required during retrograde.
Manual Mode
The manual mode is normally used in orbit when manual control of the capsule is desired. It is also
used during retrograde if the auto and rate command modes are Inoperative. The manual mode can be
used in conjunction with the fly-by-wire mode to provide additional control torque during retrograde.
The use of manual plus fly-by-wire for retrograde should consume less fuel per system.
1-18
STABILIZATION
CAPSULE STABILIZATION
Fly-By-Wire Mode
Manual Mode
1-19
Rate Command Mode
The rate command mode Is used to recover if the capsule is tumbling or if the ASCS cannot maintain
the proper attitude during retro fire. The rate command mode consumes more fuel than the manual or
fly-by-wire modes. Therefore, if it becomes necessary to use rate command, switch to fly-by-wire or
manual as soon as the need for rate command Is over.
Separate control knobs for controlling suit and cabin temperatures are located on the right console.
During orbit, adjust the suit and cabin temperature for maximum comfort. Prior to re-entry, cool the
suit and cabin as much as possible. Throughout the mission, periodically check the C02 partial
pressure gage. Cabin pressure Is normally maintained at 5.1 pisa. Check that cabin pressure is normal,
02 pressure is above 3.1 psi, and "02 Press" warning light is not illuminated before opening faceplate.
Closely monitor the cabin pressure, 02 pressure, and "02 Press" warning light whenever the faceplate
Is open and be prepared to close the faceplate immediately if the "0 2 Press" telelight illuminates or at
any sign of dropping cabin or 02 pressure.
WARNING
In the event of sudden cabin depressurization, the faceplate must be closed and sealed within
approximately 10 to 12 seconds.
1-20
STABILIZATION
NOTES
1-21
MISSING PAGE
1-22
and may be used to orient the capsule to orbit attitude, retrograde attitude, or horizontal attitude. It is
also used to determine orbit altitude, earth position and drift. The periscope is used with the computer
and clock to compute orbital velocity and for sun and moon navigation.
The satellite hand computer Is provided to aid in solving navigation problems. The computer consists
of three discs; one basic disc, one smaller top disc, and a rotating disc between the two fixed discs. The
computer may be used to find orbital tangential velocity, orbital angle, drift, orbital ground speed, and
indicated ground speed as well as multiplication, division, and proportions.
After arriving in orbit, check the periscope to see that the earth path Indicator is displaying the correct
capsule position. If the earth path indicator does not show the correct position, use the Polar and Orbit
knobs to slew the globe until the correct position Is shown. If the earth path indicator shows the
capsule to be on the correct orbit path but ahead or behind the capsule position, use the Orbit knob to
slew to the correct position. If the earth path Indicator position is not on the correct orbital path, use
both knobs to slew the globe to the correct position. After the indicator shows the correct posi-
tion, periodically cross-check with the periscope. If the earth path indicator is ahead or behind the
actual position, adjust the Orbit Time knob. If the periscope shows the capsule is not on the preset
orbital inclination, adjust the Inclination knob.
1-23
RETROGRADE
BEFORE RETROGRADE
The suit and cabin should be cooled as much as possible and the rate command mode should be
checked for proper operation. Be prepared to switch to rate command and fly-by-wire if the automatic
mode is unable to hold the retro fire attitude. If the rate command mode Is unreliable, be prepared to
switch to manual and fly-by-wire modes.
WARNING
If the Auto Retro Jett switch is in the AUTO position, the retrograde package will jettison 60
seconds after the retrograde fire command even if no retrograde rockets have fired.
Be prepared to manually orientate capsule if the "Retro Att" telelight does not illuminate green or if the
capsule is not ill the retrograde attitude.
RETROGRADE
The retrograde sequence is normally initiated by the retrograde clock, however, It can be initiated by
depressing the Retro Seq button or by ground command. The "Retro Warn" warning light illuminates
30 seconds before retro event time, and the "Retro Seq" telelight illuminates green at event time. The
capsule should start rotating to retrograde attitude and
1-24
RETROGRADE
BEFORE RETROGRADE
RETROGRADE
1-25
seconds after the "Retro Seq" telelight illuminates green.
WARNING
If there has been a malfunction of the attitude indicating system, the ASCS may energize the
attitude permission relay and permit the retrograde rockets to fire even though the capsule is not
In the retrograde attitude.
RE-ENTRY
60 seconds after the retro fire signal, the retrograde package is jettisoned and the ASCS positions the
capsule in the re-entry attitude. As soon as the capsule is in the re-entry attitude, cross check the
periscope and attitude indicator to be sure that the capsule is in the correct attitude. The periscope is
retracted 30 seconds after the retrograde package is jettisoned.
WARNING
Be sure the periscope has fully retracted. If the periscope does not completely retract, the
periscope door will not close causing the cabin to overheat during re-entry.
When the capsule enters the atmosphere and deceleration reaches .05g, the .05g relay will shut off
attitude hold, engage rate damping, and Initiate a constant 10-12'°/sec. slow roll to minimize
touchdown dispersion. Pitch and yaw rates should not exceed 2°/sec.
1-26
RE-ENTRY
RE-ENTRY
NOTES
1-27
LANDING
When the capsule descends to 42,000 feet, the drogue chute is deployed. Drogue chute deployment can
be checked by observing deployment through the window and by the opening shock. At 20,000 feet,
the cabin fan goes off, the Emer O2 handle moves to EMER and the "O2, Emer" light illuminates,
indicating that the cabin inlet valve has opened, thereby providing increased suit circuit ventilation.
Pull the Snorkel ring at 20,000 feet to ensure that both the inlet and outlet valves open. At 10,000 feet,
a set of dual barostats initiates the antenna fairing ejector to jettison the antenna fairing and extend the
periscope. Separation of the antenna fairing will deploy the main chute, turn on UHF rescue beacon,
switch communications to descent antenna, and fire cabin inlet and outlet valve squibs. All remaining
hydrogen-peroxide is also jettisoned at this time through the high thrust pitch and yaw reaction jets.
When the antenna fairing separates from the capsule, the "Main" telelight will illuminate green. Main
chute deployment can be detected by the opening shock, rate of descent, and by observing the chute
through the periscope and window. The reserve chute may be deployed in the event the main chute
does not deploy properly or is damaged. 12 seconds after chute deployment, the heat shield is released
to deploy the landing bag. The "Landing Bag" telelight will illuminate green as soon as the heat shield
release is actuated. At impact, the inertia switch releases the main chute, illuminates the "Rescue"
telelight red, and energizes the recovery light. Place the Rescue switch to MAN to disconnect the
reserve chute, fire the reserve chute ejector, illuminate the "Rescue" telelight green, and inflates the
balloon antenna. If the Rescue switch is not actuated within 10 minutes after impact, a time delay relay
will bypass the Rescue Aids switch and actuate the rescue aids.
1-28
LANDING
LANDING
NOTES
1-29
RECOVERY AIDS
Radar reflective chaff is ejected when the main chute is deployed to aid radar stations in tracking the
capsule. A SOFAR bomb is also ejected when the main chute is deployed. The UHF recovery beacon
will operate during descent and after landing until capsule recovery. The UHF transmitter is switched
to CW mode at antenna fairing separation. A dye marker and shark repellant are ejected when the
reserve chute is ejected. The impact switch actuates the recovery flashing light and HF recovery
beacon, and switches the HF radio to the recovery transceiver. In the CW mode the UHF transmitter
will transmit continuously for DF homing if the UHF DF switch is in the NORM position and the
Transmit switch is In the UHF position. To receive voice on the UHF transmitter, place the UHF DF
switch in the R/T position. After impact, the HF recovery receiver operates continuously and the HF
recovery beacon transmits continuously for DF homing. A low-powered, hand-held UHF transceiver is
also available in the survival kit for DF transmission and voice communications.
EGRESS
Except In an emergency, remain in the capsule in order to have the protection of the capsule and to
have access to the recovery aids.
1-30
1-31
1-32
SECTION II
EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
Table of Contents
Abort 2-2
Tower Fails to Jettison 2-4
Capsule Fails to Separate From Booster 2-4
Abort From Orbit 2-6
Stabilization System Emergency Operation 2-6
Environmental Control System Emergency Operation. 2-10
Electrical System Emergency Operation 2-16
Communications System Emergency Operation 2-20
Fire or Fumes 2-20
Periscope Emergency Operation 2-22
Failure to Start Retrograde Sequence 2-24
Failure to Attain Retrograde Attitude 2-24
Retrograde Rockets Fall to Fire 2-26
Failure to Maintain Retrograde Attitude 2-26
Retrograde Package Fails to Jettison 2-28
ASCS Cannot Maintain Re-Entry Attitude 2-28
. 05g Switch Failure 2-30
Drogue Chute Failure 2-30
Antenna Fairing Fails to Jettison 2-30
Main Chute Failure 2-30
Reserve Chute Falls to Deploy 2-32
Landing Bag Fails to Deploy 2-32
Post-Landing Emergencies 2-32
Egress 2-34
Emergency Egress 2-38
Post-Egress 2-38
2-1
LAUNCH
ABORT
Prior to capsule umbilical separation, the abort can be initiated from the blockhouse through the
booster or capsule umbilical. After capsule umbilical separation and before liftoff, the abort can be
initiated from the blockhouse through the booster umbilical or command receiver and by the abort
handle. After liftoff, the abort can be Initiated by ground command through the command receiver,
failure sensing system of the booster, and by the abort handle.
An abort signal from any source will shut down the booster and sustainer engines, illuminate the
"Abort" light, fire the capsule-adapter ring bolts and, after the capsule-adapter ring separates, fire the
escape rocket and Jettison the retrograde package. At maximum altitude, the escape tower is jettisoned
and the ASCS is energized to provide rate damping. For aborts below 10,000 feet, the drogue chute is
deployed 2 seconds after tower jettison. Two seconds later, the antenna fairing Is jettisoned and the
main chute is deployed. On aborts between 10,000 feet and 42,000 feet, the drogue chute is deployed 2
seconds after tower jettison and the main chute is deployed at 10,000 feet. If the abort is initiated above
42,000 feet, the normal recovery sequence is Initiated. If the capsule does not rise above 20,000 feet,
the inlet and outlet snorkel valves will be opened by the squibs upon antenna fairing separation. To
ensure that these valves operate, pull the snorkel override ring after antenna fairing separation.
2-2
Abort Prior to Tower Jettison
NOTES
2-3
Abort After Tower Jettison
The abort command will shut down the sustained engine, illuminate the "Abort" light and fire the
capsule-adapter ring bolts. After the capsule ring separates and the loss of thrust is detected, the
posigrade rockets are fired to separate the capsule from the adapter and the ASCS positions the capsule
in the retrograde attitude. The retrograde rockets are fired on ground command if they are required, and
a normal recovery accomplished. If the retrograde rockets are not fired within 5 minutes, the ASCS
will reposition the capsule to orbit attitude.
On a normal launch, the tower is jettisoned by firing the escape rocket 20 seconds after staging. On
aborts before staging, the tower is jettisoned by firing the tower jettison rocket at maximum attitude. If
the tower fails to jettison at the proper time, the "Jett Tower" telelight will illuminate red. Pulling the
Jett Tower ring will electrically fire the tower ring bolts through an alternate circuit and fire one of the
bolts through a gas initiator. If the telelight remains red, the tower jettison rocket (aborts) or the escape
rocket (normal) has not fired and the escape system fuse switches should be reset.
If the capsule fails to separate from the adapter at the proper time, the "Sep Capsule" telelight will
illuminate red. Pulling the Sep Capsule ring will electrically fire two capsule-adapter ring retaining
bolts and fire the third bolt through a gas initiator. On aborts before tower jettison, the "Sep Capsule"
telelight will remain red if the escape rocket fails to fire. In this event, place the Emer Escape Rckt fuse
switch to the NO. 2 position. After tower jettison the "Sep Capsule" telelight will remain red after the
Sep Capsule ring is pulled if all posigrade rockets fail to fire. If this occurs, reset the Emerg Posigrade
fuse switch to the No. 2 position to fire the
2-4
Abort After Tower Jettison
2-5
posigrade rockets. Any one of the three posigrade rockets will provide sufficient capsule-booster
separation.
ORBIT
An abort from orbit should consist of a well planned re-entry rather than a hasty re-entry that may
result in an undesirable touchdown point. If conditions permit, select the most desirable recovery
available, compute retrograde time, and Inform ground station of the intended impact point.
If the automatic mode falls and the capsule is tumbling, switch to rate command to stop the tumbling
and return the capsule to orbit attitude. After the capsule is stabilized, switch to manual mode to
conserve fuel. ASCS rate damping is normally used with the manual mode to aid in maintaining
smooth control, however, it may be turned off to conserve fuel if desired. Roll, pitch or yaw axis
controls can be shut off in the event the ASCS has failed In one axis only. if ASCS has failed or is too
unreliable to use during retrograde, check that the rate command mode is operating properly and use
rate command and fly-by-wire during retrograde.
Note
ASCS rate damping will not be available with the ASCS fuel handles pulled.
WARNING
If ASCS malfunction was caused by a malfunction of the attitude gyros or the horizon scanner,
the attitude indicator will give incorrect indications.
2-6
ABORT FROM ORBIT
2-7
Failure of Fly-By-Wire
Failure of fly-by-wire may occur in conjunction with failure of the automatic mode. If it occurs
without failure of the automatic mode, there is probably an electrical malfunction in the control system
fly-by-wire switches, ASCS switch, or associated circuits. Return to the automatic mode, unless it has
also failed, or switch to the manual mode.
If rate command fails in orbit, switch to manual or fly-by-wire mode if manual control is desired, or to
automatic mode. During retrograde, have manual control fuel handle pulled and be prepared to switch
to manual AND fly-by-wire if the automatic mode also fails.
If the horizon scanner fails, the attitude indicating system will have no horizon reference for slaving
and the vertical gyro will have to depend on automatic precession to maintain the gyro vertical to the
earth's surface. The only indication that the horizon scanner has failed will be a difference in the
Indications of the attitude indicator and the periscope.
CAUTION
Be sure the ASCS switch is in the AUX DAMP or FLY-BY-WIRE position before caging the attitude
gyros. If the attitude gyros are caged and the ASCS switch is in the NORM position, the capsule will
tumble.
Note
The pitch attitude of the capsule may drift up or down at approximately 1 degree/min. between
horizon scanner slaving cycles. This drift error should be reduced to zero 8 minutes out of every
half hour.
2-8
Failure of Fly-By-Wire
2-9
ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL SYSTEM EMERGENCY OPERATION
Cabin Pressurization
In the event the cabin becomes depressurized it is only necessary to have the face plate closed. The
cabin may be depressurized to eliminate smoke, fumes, or fire. The cabin can be depressurized at any
time as long as the face plate is closed.
WARNING
If the faceplate Is open and cabin pressure is suddenly lost, It must be closed and sealed within
approximately 10 to 12 seconds.
In the event of cabin depressurization, the cabin pressure regulator will automatically shut off oxygen
flow when cabin pressure drops to 4.1 psia. The remaining oxygen is then reserved for the suit
environmental circuit. All oxygen can be lost overboard if the cabin is leaking and cabin pressure
remains above 4.0 psi. Therefore, depressurize the cabin if a leak Is discovered or If oxygen
consumption is excessive. If the cabin was de-pressurized by pulling the Decomp "T" handle, the cabin
can be pressurized by pushing the handle IN and pulling Repress "T" handle. This will pressurize the
cabin in approximately 5 minutes. When the cabin pressure reaches 5 psi, push Repress "T" handle IN
and return tile Emer 02 lever to NORM. if on Emer 02 rate, place the Suit Fan switch to NO. 1 for 30
seconds and then to AUTO to restore the suit fans to automatic operation.
2-10
ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL SYSTEM EMERGENCY
OPERATION
Cabin Depressurization
1. Faceplate - CLOSED
2. All suit connections - CHECK
3. Decomp "T" handle - PULL
Cabin Pressurization
NOTES
2-11
Excessive C02 Partial Pressure
If the Suit C02 partial pressure exceeds the red line (.154 psi or 8 mm mercury), check the cabin
pressure, 02 partial pressure, and "02 Press" warning light. If the cabin pressure is approximately 5 psi,
02 Partial Pressure is over 3.1 psi, and the "02 Press" warning light is not illuminated, open the helmet
faceplate and prepare to Initiate retrograde. If the cabin pressure is below 5 psi, 02 partial pressure is
below 3.0 psi, or the "0 2 Press" warning light is illuminated, place the Emer 02 lever to EMER and
initiate retrograde within one orbit.
Emergency Oxygen
In the event the suit pressure drops below 4 1 psi, the emergency oxygen rate valve automatically
opens and the suit circuit shutoff valve closes to prevent oxygen flow through the impurity removers,
temperature control units, and the suit fans. The emergency oxygen rate valve may be opened at any
time by actuating the Emer 02 lever on the right console. This action supplies oxygen for cooling and
pressurizing the suit as well as supplying oxygen for breathing. The "02 Emer. Flow" light will
illuminate whenever the emergency oxygen rate valve or suit circuit shutoff valve operates manually or
automatically. During emergency rate operation, the oxygen supply duration is greatly reduced because
oxygen is exhausted overboard.
2-12
Excessive C02 Partial Pressure
Emergency Oxygen
2-13
Alternate Suit Fan
If the No. 1 suit fan fails with the Suit Fan switch in the Auto position, the No. 2 fan will automatically
cut In to provide suit ventilation. Either fan may also be selected by placing the Suit Fan switch in the
No. 1 or No. 2 position. In the event both suit fans fall, actuate the Emer 0 2 lever on the right console
to provide ventilation and initiate retro within one orbit.
Indicator lights marked "Excess Suit H20" and "Excess Cabin H20" illuminate whenever excess water
(not evaporated) reaches 42°F in the heat exchanger exhaust duct. Whenever either "Excess H20" light
illuminates, position that temperature controller to a warmer setting.
Note
"Excess Cabin H20" warning light will illuminate when freon cooling is being supplied through
the ground test umbilical before launch.
The "02 Press" warning light will Illuminate whenever the cabin 02 partial pressure drops below 3 psi.
Do not open the faceplate If the "02 Press" warning light is illuminated.
2-14
Alternate Suit Fan
If the Auto suit fan falls and No. 2 does not switch in automatically:
NOTES
2-15
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM EMERGENCY OPERATION
'Failure of one or more main batteries may be detected by periodically checking voltage of each
battery. If any shows less than 18 volts or a difference of 3 volts from bus voltage, turn that battery off.
If the standby battery switch is in the AUTO position and main bus voltage drops below 18 volts, the
standby battery will be connected to the main bus, the secondary bus will be deprived of power, the
250 VA main inverter and ASCS bus will be deprived of power, and the Standby DC Auto" warning
light will be illuminated.
The only indication of standby battery failure will be by periodic checks of standby battery or failure to
automatically switch to the main DC bus when main bus voltage drops below 18 volts. If standby
battery failure is detected, turn that battery off. If the main batteries also fail, place the Audio Bus
switch to EMER to permit the isolated battery to maintain communications. The isolated battery also
supplies the isolated squib bus to assure sufficient power to fire all squibs as well as the retrograde
rockets. The isolated battery may also be connected to the main bus through the Standby Battery
switch if the Isolated Battery switch is placed in the STBY position.
WARNING
The isolated battery should not be used to supply other busses unless absolutely necessary and
then only for essential equipment since It supplies the alternate power source for firing retrograde
rockets and the recovery system pyrotechnics.
2-16
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM EMERGENCY OPERATION
2-17
Isolated Battery Failure
If the isolated battery fails, the Isolated squib bus can be powered from the standby battery by placing
the Isol Btry switch to STDBY. Immediate retrograde is not necessary unless the main batteries are
also low.
Failure of the ammeter or Ammeter switch can cause complete electrical failure by removing the
ground for all capsule batteries. If all capsule power is suddenly lost, place the Ammeter switch to
BYPASS to provide an alternate ground for the batteries.
If either main Inverter fails with the Stby Invert switch in the AUTO position, the standby inverter will
automatically supply power to the failed AC bus and illuminate the "Standby AC Auto" light.
Determine which inverter failed by placing Stby Invert switch to FANS ONLY and checking the
ASCS bus with the AC voltmeter. If the ASCS bus voltage is zero, the ASCS bus inverter has failed.
Then return the Stby Invert switch to AUTO.
If both main Inverters fail with the Stby Invert switch in the AUTO position, the standby Inverter will
automatically switch to the fail bus. If both AC buses are required, they can be powered from the
standby Inverter by placing the Stby Invert switch to the EMER AC position.
WARNING
This can cause an overload on the standby inverter and should be used only when absolutely
necessary.
2-18
Isolated Battery Failure
2-19
Fuses
All fuses accessible in flight are contained in fuse switches on two fuse panels. One is located just to
the left of the console and the other is on the right side of the main panel. Each fuse switch has four
positions, NO. 1, NO. 2, OFF and REPLACE, and contains two fuses. If the NO. 1 fuse fails, the
switch may be repositioned to NO. 2.
Since the basic capsule concept relies heavily on the communications system, three separate
transmitters and receivers are provided for voice communications. Two additional command receivers
are also provided and may be used for receiving ground commands if all other receivers fall. An
emergency key for the low power telemetry transmitter is also provided for use In the event all the
voice transmitters become inoperative.
WARNING
Do not place audio bus switch to EMER unless it is absolutely necessary because of the
excessive drain on the isolated battery.
FIRE OR FUMES
Any fire inside the capsule will probably be an electrical fire. Therefore, attempt to determine the
cause of the fire and turn off the affected equipment. The cabin can be depressurized to extinguish any
fire and eliminate fumes. If helium is leaking from the H202 pressurization system, the cabin 02 partial
pressure may become too low. The capsule has no instruments for detecting helium; however, the "02
Press" warning light will illuminate when cabin 02 partial pressure
2-20
COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM EMERGENCY OPERATION
FIRE OR FUMES
1. Faceplate - CLOSED
2. If fire or fumes are severe, Decomp "T"
handle - PULL
3. Attempt to determine source of fire or fumes.
4. If source of fire or fumes can be determined, turn
off affected equipment.
5. If affected equipment can be turned off, repressurize
cabin.
6. Initiate retrograde as soon as convenient.
2-21
drops below 3 psi. Therefore, do not open the faceplate if the "02 Press" warning light Illuminates or
cabin 02 partial pressure drops below 3 psi.
WARNING
An electrical fire can damage recovery system. Therefore, it may be desirable to abort
immediately.
The periscope is electrically extended and retracted with a manual lever for emergency extension and
retraction if the normal (electrical) extension and retraction system should fail. The periscope is
automatically extended as soon as the capsule is in orbit and retracts 30 seconds after the retrograde
package is jettisoned. The Retract Scope telelight will illuminate red if the periscope fails to retract by
40 seconds after retrograde package is jettisoned.
WARNING
The periscope must be retracted prior to reentering the atmosphere. The periscope door forms a
part of the capsule side insulation when It Is closed. If the periscope Is not retracted during re-
entry, the door will be open causing the capsule to overheat.
The periscope is again extended at 10,000 feet during descent to allow the chute to be checked for
proper deployment or damage.
2-22
PERISCOPE EMERGENCY OPERATION
NOTES
2-23
RETROGRADE
If the "Retro Seq" telelight fails to illuminate at retrograde time, the retrograde sequence can be started
by depressing the Retro Seq button or the Fire Retro button. Depressing the Retro Seq button will start
the normal retrograde sequence while depressing the Fire Retro button will fire the retrograde rockets
as soon as the capsule reaches retrograde attitude. if the Retro Seq and the Fire Retro buttons fail,
switch to Rate Command and Fly- By-Wire, position the capsule to retrograde attitude, and manually
fire the retrograde rockets.
The "Retro Att" telelight will Illuminate red if the ASCS fails to position the capsule in the retrograde
attitude within 30 seconds after receiving a signal from the satellite clock or ground command, or
when the Retro Seq button Is depressed. It will also illuminate red if the attitude permission circuit
fails even though the capsule is in the retrograde attitude. Therefore, if the "Retro Att" telelight fails to
illuminate within 10 seconds, immediately check the attitude Indicator and periscope to determine if
the capsule is In the retrograde attitude. If the capsule is in the retrograde attitude, place the Retro Att
switch to BYPASS and depress the Fire Retro button to fire the retrograde rockets. If the capsule is not
in the correct position, use rate command AND fly-by-wire to position the capsule in the retrograde
position. If the attitude permission circuit of the ASCS has not failed, the retrograde rockets will fire
automatically 30 seconds after the retro sequence is Initiated or, if over 30 seconds, as soon as the
capsule Is in the proper attitude. If the attitude permission
2-24
FAILURE TO START RETROGRADE SEQUENCE
2-25
circuit has failed, place the Retro Att. switch to BYPASS and push the Fire Retro button to fire the
retrograde rockets.
Normally the retrograde rockets are fired at 5 second intervals. If any two rockets fail to fire within 20
seconds after receiving the fire signal, the "Fire Retro" telelight will illuminate red. The telelight will
also illuminate red if the attitude permission relay fails to energize within 30 seconds after receiving
the retrograde signal from the clock, ground command, or the Retro Seq button. In any event, if tile
"Fire Retro" telelight illuminates red, recheck that the "Retro Att" telelight is green and depress the
Retro Fire button to fire all retrograde rockets sequentially through another circuit. If tile retrograde
rockets still do not fire, place the No. I retro rocket, No. 2 retro rocket, No. 3 Retro Rocket and Retro
Man fuse switches to the NO. 2 position and depress the Fire Retro button again. The "Fire Retro"
telelight remains red until at least two rockets fire, however, the capsule will make a safe re-entry even
if only one retrograde rocket fires.
If the capsule exceeds the retrograde firing limits during retrograde rocket firing, place the Squib
switch to OFF to prevent remaining rockets from firing in all incorrect attitude. Reposition the capsule
to the retrograde attitude employing the appropriate control mode, place the Retro Att switch to
BYPASS, place the Squib switch to ARM, and depress the Fire Retro button. The No. 2 and No. 3
retrograde rockets will fire 5 seconds and 10 seconds after depressing tile retro fire button.
Note
If No. 1 retrograde rocket was fired with the Retro Att switch In the BYPASS position, it is only
necessary to return the Squib switch to the ARM position.
2-26
f. If attitude permission circuit is inoperative and
retrograde rockets do not fire as soon as capsule
is in retrograde attitude, place the Retro Att
switch to BYPASS.
g. Fire Retro button - DEPRESS
2-27
RETROGRADE PACKAGE FAILS TO JETTISON
The retrograde package is jettisoned 60 seconds after retrofire is initiated. If the retrograde package has
not jettisoned 60 seconds after retro fire signal, the "Jett Retro" telelight will illuminate red 60 seconds
after retro fire signal.
After the retro package separates, the ASCS normally repositioned the capsule to re-entry attitude (1
1/2° heat shield down). The periscope should be used to check the attitude as soon as the ASCS
repositions the capsule to re-entry attitude since the periscope will automatically retract 30 seconds
after the retrograde package is jettisoned. If the capsule is not in the correct re-entry attitude, use the
manual control system to position the capsule in the correct attitude. Place Retract Scope switch to
MAN to prevent the periscope from retracting after the retrograde package is jettisoned. As soon as the
capsule is in the re-entry attitude, return to normal control system and use periscope to see if ASCS
will maintain re-entry attitude. If ASCS maintains re-entry attitude, shut off manual control system and
retract periscope. If ASCS will not maintain re-entry attitude, leave periscope extended and use manual
controls to maintain re-entry attitude until ".05g" telelight illuminates. Then immediately retract
periscope and check that the ASCS automatically initiates a 7°/sec slow roll.
2-28
RETROGRADE PACKAGE FAILS TO JETTISON
If ASCS does not reposition capsule to correct re-entry attitude after retro package separates:
2-29
.05G SWITCH FAILURE
If the .05g switch has not closed by 0.25g (approximately 600 seconds after retrograde package is
jettisoned) the ".05g" telelight will illuminate red. If the .05g button does not override the failure, the
Emer .05g fuse has probably failed.
LANDING
Drogue chute failure can be detected by the lack of opening shock and by a visual check through the
window. Failure of the Emer Drogue Deploy fuse will fail the Drogue Override button.
If the "Main" telelight illuminates red at 10,000 feet, the antenna fairing has failed to jettison or the
telelight relay has failed. If the telelight falls to illuminate, there has probably been a failure of the
10,000 ft. barostat, or of the telelight. If the telelight or the telelight relay has failed, the antenna fairing
will still jettison normally and no corrective action is required.
Main chute deployment failure can be detected by the lack of opening shock, a visual check through
the periscope and window, and no decrease in the rate of descent. Chute damage can be detected by
visual inspection and by a rate of descent above 32 feet per second.
2-30
.05G SWITCH FAILURE
2-31
LANDING BAG FAILS TO DEPLOY
If the heat shield release is not actuated 12 seconds after chute deployment, the "Landing Bag" telelight
will illuminate red. If heat shield fails to release when the Landing Bag switch is placed to MAN, the
Emer Land Bag fuse has probably failed.
POST-LANDING EMERGENCIES
If the main parachute fails to release upon impact, it may be released by pulling the Reserve ring. If the
Reserve ring fails, the parachute may act as a sail and pull the capsule through the water. If this occurs,
remain in the seat with the restraint system fastened to prevent injury from bouncing and tumbling. If
the capsule is not bouncing or tumbling, release the escape hatch and cut shroud lines with a knife.
In the event the reserve chute fails to eject or disconnect when Rescue switch is actuated, the chute
container can be pushed out of the capsule after removing the escape hatch.
In the event the capsule lands in rough seas, remain in the seat with the restraint harness fastened
except in emergencies such as: fire, leaking capsule, etc. If an emergency prohibits remaining in the
capsule, use extreme caution to prevent the raft from capsizing.
2-32
RESERVE CHUTE FAILS TO DEPLOY
If the reserve chute does not deploy when the Reserve deploy ring is pulled:
POST-LANDING EMERGENCIES
2-33
Cooling System Fails
In the event the cooling system fails after impact, adequate ventilation may be received by removing
the escape hatch and opening his suit. If the capsule overheats, use normal egress procedures.
Fire or Fumes
In the event of fire or fumes in the cabin, immediately evacuate the capsule using emergency egress
procedures.
If the leak is large, immediately leave capsule. If leak is small, check conditions outside before
deciding whether or not to leave capsule immediately.
In the event the capsule strikes land, use emergency egress procedures to leave capsule.
EGRESS
Except in an emergency, remain in the capsule in order to have the protection of the capsule and to
have access to the recovery aids. If conditions prohibit remaining in the capsule, 'proceed as illustrated
in Figure 2-1.
2-34
Cooling System Fails
NOTES
2-35
EGRESS
Figure 2-1
2-36
2-37
EMERGENCY EGRESS
Explosive removal of the side entrance hatch provides an alternate egress route. The hatch is released
by a gasket type firing plate which severs the notched titanium hatch bolts. The side hatch can also be
actuated from the outside by pulling the external release handle. The emergency escape hatch can be
used for egress on the launch pad during countdown or for egress after land impact.
WARNING
If the capsule is in the water, the emergency escape hatch should be used only in an emergency
requiring immediate egress since the capsule can be swamped after the hatch is removed,
especially in rough seas.
WARNING
When leaving capsule, use the raft for support. If the hatch sill is used for support, it will sink
below the waterline.
POST EGRESS
1. PK2 raft
2. Desalting kit (for 8 pints)
3. Two shark repellant packages
4. Three dye markers
2-38
EMERGENCY EGRESS
NOTES
2-39
5. First aid kit
6. Three distress signals
7. Signal mirror
8. AN/PRC-32 radio
9. Survival ration
10. Matches
11. Whistle
12. 10 feet of nylon cord
A knife and flashlight are also attached to the pressure suit. The suit assists flotation until it fills with
water. After getting Into the raft, it may be necessary to ventilate the suit by opening the zippers or by
cutting open the suit with the knife.
WARNING
If the zippers have been opened or the suit cut for ventilation, the suit will not assist flotation in
the event the raft capsizes.
2-40