Conceptual Modeling of Supersonic Retropropulsion Flow Interactions and the Relationship to System Performance

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Author(s)
Korzun, Ashley M.
Braun, Robert D.
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Daniel Guggenheim School of Aerospace Engineering
The Daniel Guggenheim School of Aeronautics was established in 1931, with a name change in 1962 to the School of Aerospace Engineering
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Abstract
Supersonic retropropulsion is an entry, descent, and landing technology applicable to and potentially enabling the high-mass missions to the surface required for advanced robotic and human exploration at Mars. For conceptual design, an initial understanding of the significance of retropropulsion configuration on the vehicle’s static aerodynamic characteristics and the relation of this configuration to other vehicle performance metrics that traditionally determine vehicle configuration is necessary. This work develops an approximate model for the aerodynamic - propulsive flow interaction based on momentum transfer within the flowfield and the geometry of relevant flow structures. This model is used to explore the impact of operating conditions, required propulsion system performance, propulsion system composition, and vehicle configuration on the integrated aerodynamic drag characteristics of full-scale vehicles for Mars entry, descent, and landing. Conclusions are then drawn on the fidelity and effort required to support specific design trades for supersonic retropropulsion.
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2012-06
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Text
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Paper
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