The Hypersonic Experiment SHEFEX - Aerotheromdynamic Layout, Vehicle Development and First Flight Results

Abstract

The purpose of the SHarp Edge Flight Experiment SHEFEX was the investigation of the aerodynamic behaviour and thermal problems of possible new shapes for future launcher or re-entry vehicles. The main focus was the improvement of common space vehicle shapes by application of facetted surfaces and sharp edges. The experiment has permitted the accurate investigation of the flow effects and their structural solution during the hypersonic flight from 90 km down to an altitude of 20 km. The project, performed under responsibility of the German Aerospace Centre (DLR) was launched from Andoya Rocket Range, Norway on October 27th 2005. This paper introduces the mission, describes the layout of the experiment and the re-entry vehicle, as well as the development process of the complete flight vehicle and initial post flight results.