A Theoretical Study of the Aerodynamic Characteristics of Lifting-Body Entry Vehicles Summary Report, Mar. 1965 - Mar. 1966

To complement NASA's extensive experimental research effort in lifting entry bodies, corresponding theoretical analyses of the aerodynamic characteristics of the Ames M-2 and Langley HL-10 have been conducted by Norair. Such analyses are required to assist in the interpretation of wind tunnel and flight test results and, in general, to complete the scope of the research program related to lifting bodies. One purpose of the present study is to provide such theoretical analyses; however, a more basic purpose is to evolve and evaluate theoretical methods applicable to the lifting-body class of vehicles in general. Emphasis is placed on the evolution of simplified methods representing an engineering approach. The following theoretical methods a r e presented in Sections 1 through 8.