Aerothermodynamics - A Critical Review -

Abstract

The present paper deals with the identification of aerothermodynamic-key technologies necessary for the design of future space transportation vehicles. Lessons learned from the German-founded program on Technologies for Reusable Future Space Transportation Systems, TETRA, as well as experiences collected from other European technology programs like MSTP and FESTIP and experiences with flight vehicles like the US-Orbiter, ARD and X-38 are taken into account. The present capabilities and limitations of the two major prediction-tools for aerothermodynamics, i.e. computational fluid dynamics and wind tunnels are highlighted. Finally, recommendations are done on necessary improvements of the actual prediction tools in order to obtain major reductions in cost for vehicle design.