Full potential flowfield solution of two launch vehicles using TranAir

Abstract

Rapid prediction of aerodynamic coefficients is necessary in the early design stages of launch vehicles. One way to do this is by using the transonic full potential code, TranAir. This paper discusses the application of TranAir on launch vehicles with boattails at transonic Mach numbers, to determine aerodynamic coefficients and pressure distributions along the body. Other methods are not readily available for determination of the latter for the purpose of preliminary design. The results are presented showing some capabilities and limitations of TranAir for aerodynamic prediction of launch vehicles. The predictions for TranAir are compared with wind tunnel data for two different configurations.