Aerodynamics/Aerothermodynamics

ATK provides aerodynamics/aerothermodynamics engineering services primarily to NASA/Langley Research Center. These services include

• Development and optimization support of trajectory modeling simulation tools
• Generation of conceptual designs and aerodynamic models
• Application of advanced computational methods for high-fidelity modeling of complex aerodynamic and propulsive flowfields
• Aeroheating analysis with time-dependent heat transfer analyses
• Simulation of Bimese Vehicle separation for tandem and "piggyback" configurations.

Among recent major activities is the work ATK performed in development of trajectory modeling software, Program to Optimize Simulated Trajectories (POST), and its related tools. POST provides the capability to target and optimize point mass trajectories for a powered or un-powered vehicle operating near an arbitrary rotating, oblate planet. POST was utilized to assist in resolution of a wide variety of atmospheric ascent and reentry problems, as well as orbital transfer problems.

ATK also maintains and enhances the NASA/LaRC Aerodynamic Preliminary Analysis System (APAS), a suite of computer codes developed to quickly and efficiently estimate vehicle aerodynamic characteristics in the conceptual and preliminary design phases. APAS generates vehicle aerodynamic databases for conceptual design studies of one- and two-stage to orbit reusable launch vehicles, hypersonic cruise vehicles, and Hyper-X project flight test vehicles. Advanced computational methods are used for higher-fidelity modeling of complex aerodynamic and propulsive flowfields with applications that include Computation Fluid Dynamics (CFD) modeling and grid generation, Scramjet Engine flowpath performance analysis, aerodynamic analysis and database development, and stage separation aerodynamic modeling.

ATK has performed aeroheating analyses of the X-43C Thermal Protection System Design for the Hyper-X Project. These analyses included generation of radiative equilibrium loads for the entire vehicle outer surface, performance of a time-dependent heat transfer analysis simulating the vehicle through its entire flight trajectory, calculation of the required Thermal Protection System (TPS) thickness to maintain temperature limits for the vehicle internal environment and the TPS materials, and development of a summary of total weight of all materials required for the TPS.

ATK also performs analyses and develops simulations of the vehicle dynamics that occur during the separation of two or more launch vehicles. This Bimese Separation Simulation incorporates all important physical phenomena and permits its users to manipulate physical parameters, vehicle configuration, simulation scenarios and separation event, and then to study its effects on the vehicle separation. The simulation incorporates realistic kinematic and dynamic characteristics of multi-vehicle systems and realistic aerodynamic effects.