Project Title:
High-Speed Velocity Diagnostic for Arc Facilities
02.03-6100
911581
High-Speed Velocity Diagnostic for Arc Facilities
Deacon Research
2440 Embarcadero Way
Palo Alto
CA
94303
Anthony
O'Keefe
415-493-6100
ARC
NAS2-13560
016
02.03-6100
911581
Abstract:
High-Speed Velocity Diagnostic for Arc Facilities
Thermal protection of the outer structure of a space vehicle during atmospheric re-entry
is crucial to the success of that vehicle's mission. The effects of spacecraft heating
due to gas in the earth's upper atmosphere can be simulated in the laboratory using
an arc jet flow. The need for accurate analysis of such data is critical since the
amount of thermal shielding loaded onto a spacecraft directly impacts the payload.
Laser induced fluorescence techniques are being developed to probe for species content
and temperature in these flows. The goal of this project is to develop a fast (kHz)
remote probe of flow velocity in arc-flow research facilities. This innovation will
permit the velocity field to be mapped out with both spatial and temporal resolution,
allowing detailed analysis of turbulence and shock front effects. Preliminary physical
and optical measurements will be used to evaluate the potential of this approach.
This project will establish the feasibility of making high speed flow velocity measurements
with a non-intrusive laser probe. Applications include use in the development of
advanced air frames, high speed jet engines and rockets and in the remote measurement
of engine thrust.
velocity, remote sensing, frequency modulation