Can You See an Artillery Shell in Flight?

Ever wondered if it's possible to see an artillery shell traveling through the air? This question has sparked curiosity among many, especially those involved in military operations or history enthusiasts. In this article, we'll delve into the factors that affect this visibility and share accounts from experienced personnel who have witnessed artillery shells in flight.

Understanding the Scenario

The visibility of a shell in flight depends on several factors, including the type of artillery, the caliber of the shell, the charge used, and the observer's position. Seafire pilots, for instance, have described observing the trajectory of 15-inch artillery shells in action. One pilot noted that these shells would first reach their maximum altitude at a slow speed before accelerating downward, providing an awe-inspiring display.

Factors Affecting Visibility

For artillery shells to be visible, a few conditions must be met:

Correct Bullet Size and Sufficient Contrast: The size of the shell and the level of contrast with the surrounding environment play a significant role. A large shell with sufficient contrast can be more easily discerned from a distance. Position Relative to Fire: The observer's position relative to the direction of fire is crucial. Observing from behind and to one side of the gun, where the shell's motion relative to the observer is minimized, can improve visibility. Lighting Conditions: Favorable lighting, such as the sun behind the observer, can enhance the visibility of the shell. Charges and Velocities: The charge used can affect the shell's trajectory and velocity. Certain charges and low-charge shots can make the shell more visible.

Real-Life Accounts

One experienced individual recounted observing a 155mm and 203mm shells in flight at a test site in Yuma. On reduced charge shots, these shells were clearly visible to observers positioned behind the gun. For high-velocity shots, the shells could be seen for a count of 2 or 3.

Another account from a Seafire pilot described seeing 5-inch naval shells during firing exercises but only for a brief moment. The visibility of the shell depended on its initial path and the observer's position.

Experiences with 155mm Howitzers have provided more detailed insights. Under a green bag charge, the shells were visible for about 100 meters of flight, and it was possible to capture their images with an old 35mm film camera, as described by one observer.

Modern Visibilities

Modern artillery, such as the 155mm shells, weigh around 100 lbs and have a similar muzzle velocity to 15-inch shells. Despite the latter being significantly larger, the visibility of larger shells is affected by their weight and the observer's position. Mortars, on the other hand, are generally easier to see as they leave the tube, due to their flatter trajectory.

Recent advancements in camera technology have allowed for better capture of the shell's trajectory, though actual visual observation remains challenging.

Conclusion

While it is possible to see an artillery shell in flight under certain conditions, it depends on multiple factors such as the artillery type, caliber, charge used, and the observer's position. Experienced personnel have provided accounts from various scenarios, illustrating the conditions under which visibility can be achieved.

For those interested in witnessing such a spectacle, understanding these factors and being in a suitable position with favorable conditions can increase the likelihood of a successful observation.