Influence of magnetohydrodynamics configuration on aerothermodynamics during Martian reentry

Abstract

This paper investigates the role of magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) on the aerothermodynamics (ATD) of a representative entry vehicle while flying into the Martian atmosphere. By strategically placing a flight-ready superconducting magnet at varied positions in the Schiaparelli reentry capsule of the ExoMars mission, we discern its impact on essential flow properties. The primary consequence of MHD during atmospheric entry is the generation of the Lorentz force, which increases the shock standoff distance resulting in a reduction of the heat flux on the spacecraft by pushing high-energy plasma particles away. Through different magnet configurations, three distinct cases are formed to comprehensively understand the effects and implications of each setup. The study is performed using the COOLFluiD MHD for EnTries, an in-house ATD solver. For case 1, the magnet's placement behind the ExoMars forebody at the stagnation point reduces the heat flux. In case 2, the magnet's relocation to the shoulder region explores its potential to mitigate communication blackouts by influencing the wake region's flow. However, this positioning also induces shock bending, leading to variations in post-shock species mass fractions and heat flux spikes in the post-shock region. Case 3, involving an additional magnet where the shock bends in case 1, showcases a consistent increase in shock standoff distance across the forebody, providing a longer relaxation zone for species equilibration. Our findings highlight that while the strength of the applied magnetic field is crucial, the magnet's size is equally pivotal in determining ATD behavior. Case 3 emerges as the most promising configuration, consistently reducing heat flux across the forebody and maintaining it in the afterbody. This study underscores the potential of multi-magnet configurations as next-generation MHD heat shields for Martian atmospheric entry, emphasizing the criticality of magnet placement and configuration in enabling future MHD-enhanced deep space exploration missions.