The Infrared Signature of the High Altitude Supersonic Target (HAST) at Sea Level
Abstract
Detailed measurements of the infrared signature of the High Altitude Supersonic Target (HAST) hybrid rocket engine have been obtained for the first time at sea level and at several measured O/F ratios representing its entire operating range. Secondary injection, as an infrared signature augmentation technique, has been evaluated on both the full-scale HAST engine and a special subscale model. The latter has also been operated with subsonic envelopes of inert gas (nitrogen) and air to eliminate or reduce the effect of afterburning as a radiation mechanism. The infrared measurements show excellent correlation between full-scale and subscale total radiation and also indicate that maximum radiation per unit area remains constant at beam aspect. It has been determined that the HAST hybrid engine infrared radiation is surface area dependent, varies linearly with flow rate, and is affected primarily by O/F ratio. These measurements have permitted closer evaluation of in-flight performance and have resulted in realistic recommendations for a HAST augmentation technique.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 1975
- Accession Number
- ADB009765
Entities
People
- C. W. Martin
- D. B. Ebeoglu