HYPERSONIC DYNAMIC STABILITY. PART II. CONICAL BODY EXPERIMENTAL PROGRAM.
Abstract
Wind tunnel tests were conducted at M = 10 and at M = 14 and 20 to obtain experimental data on the hypersonic dynamic stability characteristics of a 10-degree half-angle cone. These data were generated to support dynamic stability studies and to evaluate the effects of many geometric and environmental variables, which influence the oscillatory motion of re-entry vehicles. The state-of-the-art of experimental ground testing in hypersonic dynamic stability is reviewed in detail with respect to simulation and data measuring capabilities. Data correlations were obtained to compare facilities and to evaluate the degree of consistency of results using different techniques in measuring and reducing the data. The confidence level for the data is established by means of these correlations, and conclusive interpretations of the data for application in flight estimates can only be made when the significance of these correlations are fully realized. The data correlations do bring out definite inconsistencies in test results and demonstrate the more obvious shortcomings of ground test simulation in this type of experiment research. Test results indicate that the 10-degree cone configuration is dynamically stable over the entire scope of matrix variables covered in the experimental program. Dynamic instabilities observed in flight remain unconfirmed by these ground test results. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1967
- Accession Number
- AD0650866
Entities
People
- R. B. Hobbs Jr
Organizations
- General Electric