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Hypervelocity re-entry (2010–2012)

Abstract:
During planetary entry from space, severe heating loads are created on the exposed surfaces of flight vehicles from the layer of plasma trapped behind the bow shock, many time hotter than the Sun. Design of the thermal protection systems is a major engineering challenge, and a limiting technology for space travel. Our aim is to do an experimental and analytical study of the associated radiating gases to gain the theoretical and practical knowledge needed to design a new generation of advanced spacecraft. Experimental data will be obtained from the unique Australian hypersonic ground facilities, and selected flight records, and the theoretical analysis will be performed in collaboration with NASA scientists.
Grant type:
ARC Discovery Projects
Researchers:

  • Professor Richard Morgan

    Professor
    School of Mechanical and Mining Engineering
    Faculty of Engineering, Architecture and Information Technology
    Professor
    School of Mechanical and Mining Engineering
    Faculty of Engineering, Architecture and Information Technology

  • Professor Tim McIntyre

    Professor
    School of Mathematics and Physics
    Faculty of Science
    Professor
    School of Mathematics and Physics
    Faculty of Science
Funded by:
Australian Research Council