Aerodynamics of missiles with offset fin configurations

Abstract

Abstract : Subsonic and transonic aerodynamic data for offset fin configurations are presented. Free-flight aeroballistic tests to obtain this data were conducted at atmospheric pressure over a Mach number range of 0.6 to 1.6. The aerodynamic coefficients and derivatives presented were extracted from the position-attitude-time histories of the experimentally measured trajectories using nonlinear numerical integration data reduction routines. Results of this testing and analysis show the static and dynamic stability variations for four different fin offset configurations. The presence of a side moment dependent on pitch angle results in dynamic instability under certain conditions. The stability boundaries associated with this side moment are mapped. Designers should be consider this moment whenever offset fins are utilized. Keywords: Offset fins; Missile stability; Flexible fins; Aerodynamics; Dynamic stability; Side moments.