Aerodynamic characteristics of two single-stage-to-orbit vehicles at Mach 20.3

The hypersonic stability, control, and performance characteristics of two configurations have been determined. Each configuration had a 50 deg swept delta wing, a vertical tail, and a body flap. One model represented a control configured vehicle with a reduced level of longitudinal static stability; the other model was designed for a conventional level of stability. Data were obtained over an angle of attack range of 0 deg to 50 deg and included effects of component buildup. In addition, the effects of the vertical tail on the lateral directional characteristics were obtained.