Contribution of DLR to the Aerodynamic Data Base of the SPHYNX Re-entry vehicle

Kurzfassung

The present report presents the numerical investigation for the SPHYNX sub-scale re-entry vehicle performed by the DLR in order to provide reference solutions to the industrial team. Heat loads, flap and aileron efficiency are considered under different flow conditions derived from flight trajectory points. For the vehicle forebody the effects of grid resolution on surface temperature distribution is provided by the assumption of full and partial catalytic wall behaviour. Finally, the scaling effects are investigated by comparing the obtained CFD results with those of the X-38 aerodynamic and aerothermodynamic databases. The present investigation indicates the possibility to use an existing aerodynamic and/or aerothermodynamic database for the design of a downsized or upsized vehicle respectively.