How should missing or conflicting atmospheric data be handled?

• A. Suspend entry and verify instruments; escalate to IC.
• B. Ignore missing data and proceed.
• C. Use any available data even if conflicting.
• D. Treat as hazardous; suspend entry, verify instruments, confirm with backup devices, and escalate to the IC.

Answer: (D)

Missing or conflicting atmospheric data creates uncertainty in how the vehicle will behave during reentry, especially in predicting drag, heating, and trajectory. Because those predictions drive critical decisions, safety requires treating the situation as hazardous. The best course is to suspend entry, verify instrument health and calibration, bring backup sensors online, and compare readings from multiple sources. Escalating the issue to the Incident Commander ensures a formal risk assessment and a decision by the appropriate authority. This approach preserves data integrity and uses redundancy to reduce risk.

Proceeding with incomplete or conflicting data, ignoring discrepancies, or relying on data without verification can lead to underestimated heating or mis-timed deceleration, risking the vehicle and crew.