Plume/flowfield jet interaction effects on the Space Shuttle Orbiter during entry

Abstract

A comparison of wind tunnel test results with actual flight test data from the performance of the Orbiter Reaction Control System during the STS-1 and -2 flights is presented. Jet interaction phenomena were modeled analytically and a decision was made to develop a jet interaction scaling parameter from empirical measurements wherever possible. A number of different scaling parameters resulted, and errors bounds were determined for tunnel-to-tunnel differences, model to tunnel differences, balance accuracy, real gas effects, varying nozzle configurations, and angle of sideslip. Flight test data has concentrated on the lateral/directional jet interaction of the aft yaw jets, which operate almost continuously from entry down to Mach 1 conditions. A discussion of rolling moments, side forces, and results of usage of the aft pitch and roll jets indicates an underprediction of the side force and yawing moment and overprediction of pitch and roll jet effects.