Hypersonic waveriders for planetary atmospheres

Abstract

The concept of a hypersonic waverider for applications in foreign planetary atmospheres is explored, particularly in regard to aeroassist for space vehicle trajectory modification. The overall concept of hypersonic waveriders is discussed in tutorial fashion. A partial review of past work is given, and the role of a new family of waveriders—th e viscous optimized waveriders generated at the University of Maryland—is highlighted. The mechanics of trajectory modification by aerodynamic vehicles with high lift-to-drag ratios in planetary atmospheres is explored. Actual hypersonic waverider designs for Mars and Venus atmospheres are presented. Moreover, they exhibit very high lift-to-drag ratios, as high as 15 in the atmosphere of Venus. These results graphically demonstrate that a hypersonic waverider is a viable candidate for aeroassist maneuvers in foreign planetary atmospheres.