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Dr. Clyde W. Tombaugh
Astronomer
Optical Instrumentation
Developer
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Dr. Clyde W. Tombaugh, an astronomer, 1930 discoverer
of the planet Pluto, educator, optical instrumentation designer, and
humanitarian, was invited to the White Sands Proving Ground in 1946 to
evaluate the potential of an experimental missile tracking telescope which had
been adapted to a WW II M-45 machine gun mount. The tracking telescope system
was built at the Ballistic Research Laboratory of the US Army Ordnance Corps,
Aberdeen, MD to support the then new rocket testing program at the White Sands
Annex.
Tombaugh accepted the invitation to improve the disappointing test performance
of the tracking telescope system, and soon exerted beneficial influence on
other forms of optical instrumentation. Under his guidance, successful results
with the telescope revealed hitherto unknown details of the V-2 in flight
behavior, separation and staging of the "Bumper" rocket at high altitude, and
the influence of emulsion types, filters, atmospherics, thermal effects, and
optical subtleties on the quality of film images and measurements.
During his nine years at White Sands Proving Ground, Clyde Tombaugh
demonstrated a remarkable capability to bridge the gap between theory and
reality in the practical application of photo-optical instrumentation to the
problems of missile data collection, image measurement, analysis, and
evaluation. In addition to personal contributions to development of tracking
telescopes and long focal length cinetheodolites, he inspired and formed teams
to operate the instruments under the difficult conditions in that early era of
the Range. The successful track of V-2 #17 on 7 December 1946, after previous
disappointments, demonstrated the scope of hitherto unobtainable in-flight
information.
He utilized his knowledge of astronomical observation techniques, optical
design, and photographic processes, to develop a fleet of specialized
telescopes for obtaining scientific data on rocket flights. Eventual success
with the original Telescope I (Bright Eyes) provided the basis for development
of a family of more complex tracking telescopes. Dr. Tombaugh designed and
personally fabricated long focal length mirror reflectors for use on the
Askania. Other contributions included studies and research on optical filters,
film emulsions - contrast/resolution, and film processing for speed and
contrast.
He conducted training classes in astronomy, lens making, photography, and film
processing for engineers and technicians. With the advent of rocket probes for
space exploration, Dr. Tombaugh had visions of space travel. After observing
the flight of missiles and rockets in space and counting objects in space, Dr.
Tombaugh expressed concern about the possible natural hazards (minute rocks
and debris) that could prevent space travel.
In June 1952, while employed at White Sands Proving Ground, Dr. Tombaugh
proposed to Army Ordnance Research that a search for small natural satellites
be started. The project was approved and search of the sky began at Flagstaff,
Arizona and Ecuador, South America. He headed the team which conducted the
first systematic search of space around the earth, particularly for the first
40,000 miles. Their finding of "nothing" gave the green light for the start of
space travel.
Upon leaving White Sands Proving Ground in November 1955 he joined the staff
of New Mexico State University. He continued his search for natural miniature
satellites orbiting the earth and became a professor in the department of
earth sciences. Dr. Clyde W. Tombaugh an astronomer, educator, optical
instrument designer, humanitarian and White Sands Missile Range Pioneer made a
significant contribution to the technical base of missile technology.
Dr. Tombaugh died on 17 Jan 1997. |
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