A Quick Escape
For any rocket launch, failure is always a possibility. What would happen to
the crew if the Saturn V failed? Different abort modes were designed for the
various phases of ascent. None were ever used.
Background image: The Apollo Launch Escape System (LES) undergoes a test a
White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico, 1965. The LES was designed to propel
the Apollo Command Module (CM) away from the Saturn V in an emergency on the
pad or during initial ascent.
LES Pitch Control Motor
The Apollo LES contained three solid-rocket motors:
-
The Launch Escape Motor pushed the CM out of the path of the Saturn V.
-
The Pitch Control Motor (on display) directed the CM out over the Atlantic.
-
The Tower Jettison
Motor helped remove the LES from the CM to make way for the capsule's
parachutes.