Concept definition study for an extremely large aerophysics range facilityThe development of a large aerophysical ballistic range facility is considered to study large-scale hypersonic flows at high Reynolds numbers for complex shapes. A two-stage light gas gun is considered for the hypervelocity launcher, and the extensive range tankage is discussed with respect to blast suppression, model disposition, and the sabot impact tank. A layout is given for the large aerophysics facility, and illustrations are provided for key elements such as the guide rail. The paper shows that such a facility could be used to launch models with diameters approaching 250 mm at velocities of 6.5 km/s with peak achievable accelerations of not more than 85.0 kgs. The envisioned range would provide gas-flow facilities capable of controlling the modeled quiescent atmospheric conditions. The facility is argued to be a feasible and important step in the investigation and experiment of such hypersonic vehicles as the National Aerospace Plane.
Document ID
19920074153
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Swift, H. (Titan Corp. Dayton, OH, United States)
Witcofski, R. (NASA Langley Research Center Hampton, VA, United States)