The aerodynamics of supersonic parachutes
A discussion of the aerodynamics and performance of parachutes flying at supersonic speeds is the focus of this paper. Typical performance requirements for supersonic parachute systems are presented, followed by a review of the literature on supersonic parachute configurations and their drag characteristics. Data from a recent supersonic wind tunnel test series is summarized. The value and limitations of supersonic wind tunnel data on hemisflo and 20-degree conical ribbon parachutes behind several forebody shapes and diameters are discussed. Test techniques were derived which avoided many of the opportunities to obtain erroneous supersonic parachute drag data in wind tunnels. Preliminary correlations of supersonic parachute drag with Mach number, forebody shape and diameter, canopy porosity, inflated canopy diameter and stability are presented. Supersonic parachute design considerations are discussed and applied to a M = 2 parachute system designed and tested at Sandia. It is shown that the performance of parachutes in supersonic flows is a strong function of parachute design parameters and their interactions with the payload wake.
- Research Organization:
- Sandia National Labs., Albuquerque, NM (USA)
- DOE Contract Number:
- AC04-76DP00789
- OSTI ID:
- 6040515
- Report Number(s):
- SAND-87-1395C; CONF-8706165-3; ON: DE87014846
- Resource Relation:
- Conference: Parachute systems technology: fundamentals, concepts, and applications, Munich, F.R. Germany, 22 Jun 1987; Other Information: Portions of this document are illegible in microfiche products
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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Related Subjects
PARACHUTES
DESIGN
PERFORMANCE TESTING
AERODYNAMICS
DRAG
POROSITY
SPECIFICATIONS
SUPERSONIC FLOW
WIND TUNNELS
FLUID FLOW
FLUID MECHANICS
MECHANICS
TESTING
TUNNELS
UNDERGROUND FACILITIES
420200* - Engineering- Facilities
Equipment
& Techniques
420400 - Engineering- Heat Transfer & Fluid Flow