Numerical Simulation of Non-Equilibrium Hypersonic Flows for the Reentry Trajectory of a Reusable Satellite

Author(s)

Moreira, Farney Coutinho ; Wolft, William Roberto ; Azevedo, Joao Luiz F.

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: AIAA AVIATION 2022 FORUM; v. N/A, p. 18-pg., 2022-01-01.

Abstract

Numerical simulations of air flows are presented for the Brazilian satellite SARA configuration under hypersonic conditions during its reentry. Despite the low-density flows, the medium can be modeled as continuum, and the laminar flow approximation is valid. The finite volume method is used to solve the Navier-Stokes equations including Park's two-temperature model for chemical dissociation and ionization. Results are presented in terms of translational-rotational and vibrational-electronic temperature modes and mass fraction distribution along the axisymmetric flow stagnation line. It is shown that thermodynamic non-equilibrium conditions result from the present high-enthalpy flows. Mesh refinement studies are carried out in order to evaluate the influence of near-wall mesh spacing and the number of volumes in the normal and longitudinal directions of the flow on the calculation of the heat flux over the satellite surface. Analysis of the results shows that thermodynamic non-equilibrium occurs along the entire reentry trajectory of the satellite. While for high altitudes the flow density is extremely low, at lower altitudes supersonic conditions are achieved and, in both cases, chemical reactions are not relevant. On the other hand, for some intermediate altitudes of the reentry trajectory, thermodynamic non-equilibrium is severely affected by the chemical reactions. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 21/02705-8 - Aerothermodynamic analysis of hypersonic flows with applications for atmospheric reentry procedures
• Grantee: Farney Coutinho Moreira
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral
• FAPESP's process: 13/08293-7 - CCES - Center for Computational Engineering and Sciences
• Grantee: Munir Salomao Skaf
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Research, Innovation and Dissemination Centers - RIDC
• FAPESP's process: 13/07375-0 - CeMEAI - Center for Mathematical Sciences Applied to Industry
• Grantee: Francisco Louzada Neto
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Research, Innovation and Dissemination Centers - RIDC