BOUNDARY LAYER TRANSITION 1B (BOLT-1B) FLIGHT EXPERIMENT
Abstract
Prediction of hypersonic boundary-layer transition physics is critical to optimize the design of hypersonic vehicles for maximum range, thermal survivability, and controllability. The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) originally developed the BOLT experiment to obtain boundary layer physics knowledge on a low-curvature concave surface with highly swept leading edges. Using lessons learned from the BOLT-1 and BOLT-2 flights, APL proposes a BOLT-1B flight experiment to research fundamental transition mechanisms and flight dynamics in the Mach 7+ flight environment. APL will conduct collaborative research with international partners to discover the salient physics of transition on the BOLT geometry at high Mach numbers (7 and above). APL will utilize new ground test databases to explore parametric trends of transition physics from variations in Mach number, enthalpy, and wall temperature effects. APL will use Spatial BiGlobal stability analysis along with planar marching Parabolized Stability Equations to assess the impacts of these parameters on transition physics. APL will research the dynamics of flight instabilities arising from asymmetric sounding rockets, including quantifying sensitivities, identifying relevant parameters contributing to dynamic instabilities, and comparing high-fidelity 6 degree-of-freedom models to analytical models developed in the literature. The research will culminate in the BOLT-1B flight experiment in Australia. APL will develop a new experiment with increased instrumentation and will work with research partners to conduct the flight experiment. A new sounding rocket can provide higher Mach numbers compared to previous BOLT flights. The BOLT-1B experiment will add significant value to previous databases of simulation and ground tests, and provide Mach 7+ flight measurements where unique boundary-layer transition physics are expected.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Apr 20, 2023
- Source ID
- FA95502210357
Entities
People
- Bradley Wheaton
Organizations
- Air Force Office of Scientific Research
- Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency
- Johns Hopkins University