Page:NASA Launch Vehicle Handbook.pdf/7

 INTRODUCTION

The weight and payload data presented was obtained from the various vehicle system contractors. As such, it represents a variety of computational methods. Therefore direct comparisons of payload capabilities from one vehicle to another could be misleading as the degree of conservatism could vary.

The prime purpose in this compilation is to provide a source of information for preliminary planning purposes. Direct contact with the appropriate NASA vehicle program manager is _ssential before az_ firm spacecraft weight and trajectory is established.