Payload Fairing

Payload fairing is one of the main components of a launch vehicle. The fairing protects the payload during the ascent against the impact of the atmosphere (aerodynamic pressure and aerodynamic heating). More recently, an additional function is to maintain the cleanroom environment for precision instruments.

Outside the atmosphere the fairing is jettisoned, exposing the payload. At this moment mechanical shocks and a spike in acceleration might be observed.

The standard payload fairing is typically a cone-cylinder combination, due to aerodynamic considerations, however specialized fairings are in use as well. The type of fairing which upon jettisoning separates into two halves is called a clamshell fairing by way of analogy to the bifurcating shell of a clam.

In some cases the fairing may enclose both the payload and the upper stage of the rocket.

If the payload is attached both to the booster's core structures and to the fairing, the payload may still be affected by fairing's bending loads, as well as inertia loads due to vibrations caused by gusts and buffeting.

Read more about Payload Fairing:  Launch Failures Caused By Payload Fairings, Manufacturers, Gallery