Aeroelastic Investigations on High-Altitude Research Aircraft Strato 2C.

Abstract

The STRATO 2C aircraft is currently being developed for manned stratospheric research missions up to 80,000 ft. It is powered by two 330 kW turbocharged piston engines. The requirements for flight endurance, altitude, payload, and operating range can only be met if high aerodynamic quality, high propulsion efficiency, and low empty weight are achieved simultaneously. The large wing span (56.5m) and aspect ratio (21.3) result from aerodynamic optimization. Carbon fibre composites are applied to reduce weight and deflections. Possible aeroelastic problems are dealt with during aircraft deve- lopment. This paper gives an overview on these activities.