A Characterization of the Terrestrial Environment of Kodiak, Alaska for the Design Development, and Operation of Launch Vehicles

Aerospace design, development, and operation are dependent on an accurate definition of the terrestrial environment for flight project and mission success. A comprehensive assessment of the surface and atmospheric environment for a location where new or existing vehicles may operate is especially important, particularly for new vehicle programs, for which establishment of relevant climatologies early in the design is vital. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is currently planning weather support for a scheduled mission next year from a new launch facility at Kodiak Island, AK (57.75N, 152.50W). In this study, winds, thermodynamic properties, and other parameters derived from meteorological data for Kodiak Island are presented for the surface and lower earth atmosphere. Long-term monthly mean profiles of winds, air temperature, and moisture values are determined along with an analysis of the surface climate, which is important for studies related to the probability for successful launch.