Results of tests in the NASA/LaRC 31 inch CFHT on an 0.010-scale model (32-OT) of the space shuttle configuration 3 to obtain hypersonic aerodynamic characteristics for second stage operation during nominal boost and the abort RTLS mode (IA58)

Abstract

Tests were conducted to obtain hypersonic aerodynamic forces and moments on an 0.010-scale model of the space shuttle vehicle configuration 3. Hypersonic stability data were obtained from tests at Mach 10.3 and dynamic pressure of 150 psf for the integrated orbiter and external tank, orbiter alone, and external tank alone. The effects of solid plume simulation from the main propulsion system as well as elevon, aileron, and rudder deflections were also investigated