Document Type

Conference Paper

Publication Date

2025

DOI

10.2514/6.2025-0935

Publication Title

AIAA SCITECH 2025 Forum

Pages

1-12

Conference Name

AIAA SCITECH 2025 Forum, January 6-10, 2025, Orlando, FL

Abstract

Techniques for the measurement of subsonic dynamic stability derivatives of blunt-body re-entry capsules are being developed using a Magnetic Suspension and Balance System at NASA Langley Research Center. The measured aerodynamics of a 45-degree sphere-cone similar to configurations being considered for Mars Sample Return Earth Entry Vehicle are reported. A novel test method has been developed where forced oscillatory translation of a test article is used to excite yaw attitude oscillations. The forced motion is then halted to observe free-to-oscillate behavior of the test article. Parameter identification methods are used to extract static and dynamic yawing moment stability characteristics from the measured forces and observed attitude histories. This combination of forced excitation followed by free-to-oscillate dynamics is a repeatable method to produce test article attitude histories that can be used to measure aerodynamic characteristics.

Rights

This material is declared a work of the U.S. Government and is not subject to copyright protection in the United States. Foreign copyright may apply.

Original Publication Citation

Hull, C., Britcher, C. P., Cox, D., Schoenenberger, M., & Shehata, H. (2025). Dynamic stability test technique for blunt bodies in a Magnetic Suspension and Balance System. In AIAA SCITECH 2025 Forum (pp. 1-12). American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics. https://doi.org/10.2514/6.2025-0935

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