USV3 aerodynamics assessment: A step forward in the ongoing design phase

This paper deals with the aerodynamic and aerothermodynamic analysis of a conceptual aeroshape, designed to fit the constraints of VEGA launcher fairing and with the capability to perform an end-to-end mission from launch, orbit keeping, re-entry and landing on conventional runway. Aerodynamic and aerothermodynamic performances of the aeroshape under investigation were evaluated for the whole flight scenario by means of several numerical simulations with in-house developed and commercial codes. Compilation of the numerical Data-Base, consisting of about 170 runs, and vehicle’s aerodynamics performances are shown from low subsonic to hypersonic regime. Analysis and discussion of the results with comparisons between different numerical tools and CFD codes are given.