Performance Technology Program (PTP-S II). Volume VI. A Statistical Model of Nosetip Shape Change for Reentry Vehicles.

An analytical model capable of describing the asymmetric shape change of reentry vehicle nosetips during atmospheric entry is described. The analysis method is suitable for inclusion in a larger simulation model for the calculation of vehicle aerodynamics, trajectory, and impact point dispersion. The method employs Monte Carlo simulation of statistical distributions of roughness element sizes on the nosetip material in order to predict asymmetric transition front behavior and the resulting asymmetric nosetip shape change. Correlations of reentry vehicle flight test data and the results of selected parametric studies are also presented. (Author)