Space shuttle orbiter reaction control subsystem flight data anomalies

Abstract

Shuttle orbiter vehicle flight data obtained during operation of the reaction control subsystem (RCS) were compared with predictions derived from RCS wind tunnel test data. This paper reviews the derivation of the wind tunnel data base and discusses how it was used to predict the full-scale RCS effects. Flight and predicted data comparisons include the lateral and directional aerodynamic effects of firing the side jets, longitudinal aerodynamics for pitch jets, and lateral aerodynamics for roll jets. Flight data anomalies resulting from wind tunnel limitations in representing portions of the entry flight trajectory are presented. The cause of each data anomaly is described, as well as a requirement for additional technical analysis to establish RCS effect simulation parameters that can be used to update jet effect technology.