Improved Monte Carlo turbulence simulation for Shuttle reentry studies

Abstract

A turbulence model for Space Shuttle reentry simulation is presented, which may be used to improve redline selection. It is suggested that the turbulence model in current use is overly conservative because it assumes severe turbulence from reentry altitude to the earth's surface. Two improved versions of the turbulence simulation equations are presented. These are third and fifth order approximations to the von Karman spectrum. The equations are in a form suitable for digital simulation. Both sets of equations can be used to generate a probability distribution of fuel remaining at landing.