In order to evaluate entry into the atmosphere of an oblate (equatorial bulge) earth a standard atmosphere was used in conjunction with the standard rotating oblate spheroid. The density variation encountered in any one polar orbit around the earth will vary by about a factor of ten, due to oblateness. Therefore, the important effects on the re-entry trajectory are atmospheric density and oblateness of the earth. The SNAP configuration burn up characteristics will differ considerably between the steep (6/sup 0/) entry of the NASA Scout test and the orbital decay trajectory. However, the test can verify heat transfer rates on the actual configuration, and by proper calculation of material response, the actual decay breakup prediction can be improved.

This report covers the activities with regard to on-site customer irradiations as of the above date. The report covers the status of materials undergoing irradiation, awaiting disposition, material shipped during the month, and current status of all reactor test holes. The integrated exposure values are calculated in accordance with HW-62781, {open_quotes}Status Report Equations.{close_quotes} The integrated exposure reported is the average exposure received by the surrounding uranium columns. Conversion to exposure received by the sample is left to the customer.

The purpose of this test was to evaluate the behavior of natural lithium-bearing materials and to provide samples for production and extraction information. Testing of the target elements was done in conjunction with a test evaluating the behavior of NIEl fuel elements. Conditions for operation during the test were similar to, or more severe, than conditions expected in N Reactor.

The attached tables are an extension of the data that will be used in the forthcoming Production Studies. It considers thorium load substitution for the natural uranium cases previously reported. The power level, operating efficiency, exposure, conversion ratios, tonnage, and production are given for the natural U loading, blanket loading, and full conversion. The small reactors, the C reactor, and the K reactor are considered.