Drag and Performance of Several Aerodynamic Decelerators at Mach Number 8.
Abstract
An experimental investigation was conducted at Mach number 8 and at simulated pressure altitudes ranging from 130,000 to 145,000 ft to determine the drag, stability, and performance of flexible aerodynamic decelators located in the wake of a strut-mounted cone forebody. The investigation was conducted at temperatures below and above that required to prevent air liquefaction in the wind tunnel test section because many of the decelerators were designed to withstand only the lower temperature. Data are presented which show an increase in drag coefficient with increasing trailing distance (x/D < or = 5) and/or decreasing pressure altitudes. These data indicate that simulated pressure altitudes of 134,000 ft and below were required to maintain convergence of the wake upstream of the decelerators when located at x/D > or approx. = 3.5. Wake convergence was generally noted to coincide with a significant increase in decelerator drag with increasing trailing distance or with decreasing pressure altitude. Wake pressure and total temperature survey data are presented which show the symmetrical nature of the wake and the effects of the forebody mounting struts as well as operation below the air liquefaction temperature. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 1970
- Accession Number
- AD0873000
Entities
People
- R. G. Lutz
- R. W. Rhudy
Organizations
- Arnold Engineering Development Complex