Variable-Lift Re-Entry at Superorbital and Orbital Speeds
Abstract
Analytical solutions were obtained for a type of variable-lift modulation applicable to a lifting body entering the atmosphere from superorbital and orbital speeds. The variable-lift modulation analyzed results in nonoscillatory trajectories and achieves a smooth transition into nominal glide phases such as constant altitude, constant flight path angle, constant dynamic pressure or any other glide desired. Simple closed-form formulas were derived which permit quick estimation of the peak deceleration and the altitude where it occurs, and the required lift modulation necessary for any set of prescribed transition conditions. These approximate formulas show the explicit dependence of trajectory quantities in terms of re-entry conditions, vehicle aerodynamic characteristics, as well as parameters defining the lift modulation. It can be shown that the analytical solutions obtained in this paper include constant lift-drag solutions and, in the case of variable lift, a continuous lift modulation program instead of a stepwise change of lift and drag.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1962
- Accession Number
- AD0278161
Entities
People
- H. E. Wang
- S. T. Chu
Organizations
- The Aerospace Corporation