Wernher Von Braun’s Pioneering Work in Modelling and Testing Liquid-Propellant Rockets

Abstract

This paper presents a view on how Dr. Wernher Von Braun laid the basis for realistic modelling and testing liquid-propellants rockets, by his PhD Thesis – a secret document in 1934, which remained classified until 1960. Understanding that better mathematical modelling is needed if these rockets are to become spaceflight vehicles, he clarified in his thesis essential issues like: maximum achievable rocket speed; Laval nozzle thrust gain; polytropic processes in the combustion chamber and nozzle; influence of equilibrium and dissociation reactions; original measurement systems for rockets test stand; engineering solutions adequate for series production of the combustion chamber – reactive nozzle assembly. The thesis provided a theoretical and experimental basis for a new concept of the rocket, having a lightweight structure; low tanks pressure; high-pressure pumps and injectors; low start speed; rocket stabilization by gyroscopic means or by active jet controls; longer engine burning time; higher jet speed. Numerous tests made even with a fully assembled rocket (the “Aggregate-I”), improved mathematical model accuracy (e.g., the maximum achievable altitude predicted for the “Aggregate-II” rocket was confirmed later in-flight tests).