Experimental Investigation of Reentry Vehicle Aerothermodynamic Problems in Arc-Heated Facilities

Abstract

Experimental investigations of local aerothermodynamic phenomena of reentry vehicles in arc-heated facilities are presented. The facility and measurement techniques are described, and performance of the facilities with respect to their reservoir conditions and model surface parameters is presented, as well as the characterization of the hypersonic flowfield by using experimental and numerical tools. Results of different testing activities related to the development of the X-38 vehicle components are discussed. It has been demonstrated that arc-heated facilities are the key tools for the qualification of hot components of reentry vehicles in a realistic aerothermodynamic environment.