Research analysis of Space Shuttle Orbiter entry aerothermodynamic flight data at the NASA Langley Research CenterThe methods used to analyze the aerothermodynamic data gathered from the Shuttle protoflights are reviewed. Trajectory and atmospheric reconstruction allow an accurate definition of the freestream environment through which the Shuttle has flown. The reconstructions, combined with aerodynamic coefficient and convective heating rate determinations, provide predictive capability for comparison with future flights. Data are acquired by operational instrumentation (12,000 parameters), development flight instrumentation (4500 measurements), and Orbiter experiments instrumentation; tracking and meteorological data are also included in the analyses. The aerothermodynamic and aerodynamic technology base for large, winged, lifting body entry vehicles is being expanded by the analysis efforts. Sensor locations on the Shuttle and data management techniques are described.
Document ID
19820030332
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Throckmorton, D. A. (NASA Langley Research Center Space Systems Div., Hampton, VA, United States)