How Far People Could Feel the Ground Shake from Saturn V Launches

The Saturn V rocket, used during the Apollo and Skylab programs, produced significant vibrations and ground shake during its launches due to its immense power. Understanding how far these vibrations could be felt is crucial for both historians and enthusiasts of aerospace history.

Factors Influencing the Shaking

The extent to which people could feel the ground shake varied based on several key factors, including the distance from the launch site, local geology, and atmospheric conditions. Generally, people could feel the vibrations several miles away from the launch pad.

Extent of Ground Shaking

Reports indicate that the vibrations from the Saturn V could typically be felt within a radius of 3 to 5 miles (5 to 8 kilometers) from the launch site, which is the area where the most intense shaking was experienced. However, the vibrations could extend as far as 10 to 15 miles (16 to 24 kilometers).

Examples of Far-reaching Vibrations

The launch of Apollo 11, for instance, was felt in nearby areas. Under specific conditions, some reports indicated that the vibrations could be perceived at even greater distances. The powerful combination of the rocket's thrust, sound waves, and ground vibrations contributed significantly to this phenomenon.

Personal Accounts and Experiences

Witnessing the launch of Saturn V and other rockets from close proximity provided a unique perspective. The author, who lived in northwest Huntsville, Alabama, and whose father worked on the Saturn V for NASA, recalls a test firing close to the Tennessee River in southwest Huntsville. This test firing was eardrum-shattering and intensely powerful, shaking the windows and ground.

Close Proximity Observations

The author also mentions the NASA viewing stands, which are located just 3 miles from the launch pad. This distance is the closest any unshielded person is allowed to be during a launch. The sound energy from the rockets is so intense that even at 3 miles, people are physically shaken. This means that any ground shaking would be impossible to perceive, as everything is moving together.

Testing and Local Vibrations

During the testing of various stages of the Saturn V, the author and family members experienced the ground rumbling from their home. The most noticeable and powerful of these tests was the first stage of the Saturn V, making the area within 15 miles distinctly noticeable for the author personally.

In conclusion, the ground shake from the Saturn V launches was impressive and could be felt over significant distances. However, the intensity and effects decreased with distance, making the experience of the authors' family and colleagues in nearby areas particularly notable.