People that are good at Math- I have a non-homework related math problem?

Question

My grandfather worked with NASA on some of the Apollo missions- he was one of the 6 men selected to mathematically figure out how to bring the men back home in Apollo 13 and we found this piece of paper at his house (he has passed away) and we were wondering if this is the trajectory theory that was used in Apollo 13?

If you have any mathematical background and can interpret if this math has anything to do with Apollo 13 it'd be appreciated.

Thanks.

http://i107.photobucket.com/albums/m302/kellisux/IMG_0418.jpg

Answer 1

It's an entry/re-entry plan of some sort. There is no way to discern whether this one is from Apollo 13, another Apollo mission, or some hypothetical situation. As for "trajectory theory" - there is really only one physical/mathematical theory behind such space flight.

It is reasonable to guess, based on what you say, that this is true. W. Eickelman (your grandfather forgot the c in Eickelman apparently) worked at NASA's Johnson Space Center, through at least Apollo 17. As far as I can tell, his specific expertise was in propulsion - which makes sense, since this paper of yours concerns propulsion, separation, etc. during entry & re-entry. [I have been unable to locate the name "Marty Sennecs" or whatever that one says.]