Numerical modeling of on-orbit propellant motion resulting from an impulsive accelerationIn-space docking and separation maneuvers of spacecraft that have large fluid mass fractions may cause undersirable spacecraft motion in response to the impulsive-acceleration-induced fluid motion. An example of this potential low gravity fluid management problem arose during the development of the shuttle/Centaur vehicle. Experimentally verified numerical modeling techniques were developed to establish the propellant dynamics, and subsequent vehicle motion, associated with the separation of the Centaur vehicle from the shuttle orbiter cargo bay. Although the shuttle/Centaur development activity was suspended, the numerical modeling techniques are available to predict on-orbit liquid motion resulting from impulsive accelerations for other missions and spacecraft.
Document ID
19870061299
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Aydelott, John C. (NASA Lewis Research Center Cleveland, OH, United States)
Mjolsness, Raymond C. (NASA Lewis Research Center Cleveland, OH, United States)
Torrey, Martin D. (Los Alamos National Laboratory NM, United States)
Hochstein, John I. (Washington University St. Louis, MO, United States)