Assessment of vehicle concepts for Space transportation and Re-entry Experimental missions

Paper number

IAC-06-D2.P.1.04

Author

Mr. Rodrigo Haya Ramos, DEIMOS Space S.L., Spain

Coauthor

Mr. Davide Bonetti, DEIMOS Space S.L., Spain

Coauthor

Mr. Massimiliano Bottacini, Thales Alenia Space, Italy

Year

2006

Abstract

This paper describes the application of advanced Flight Mechanics tools for the selection of atmospheric re-entry vehicles concepts either for Human and cargo transportation missions (HST) or for atmospheric re-entry experimental missions. 

Flight Mechanics analyses covers the selection of the vehicle configuration (center of gravity and nominal angle of attack profile), the calculation of the entry corridor, the generation of the nominal entry trajectory, the performance assessment of controlled entry trajectories and the Flight Control System (FCS) performance specification, in terms of allocation and sizing of actuators. Advanced Mathematical techniques like the kriging metamodeling and the optimization through genetic algorithms are applied to the selection of the configuration of atmospheric entry vehicles.  Other techniques include trajectory optimization based on the Gradient Restoration algorithm, MonteCarlo simulations for assessing the performance of controlled entry trajectories and attitude dynamics inversion for the specification of the Flight Control System (FCS). 

This paper shows the application of these techniques in the selection of vehicle candidates that cover classical capsules (Soyuz, Apollo, Viking…), advanced capsules (Biconic shape without active surfaces), slender bodies (Launac type) and lifting body type vehicles with active control surfaces (Sphynx, Klipper derived lifting body). Special attention is dedicated to the Biconic concept without active control surfaces and the Klipper derived lifting body for both operational and experimental missions. In the particular case of the selection of the vehicle configuration, the classical selection based on graphs, charts and maps taking into account the mission and system requirements and constraints can be supported by automated decisions based on numerical optimization. This approach has been assessed for both vehicles. 

Abstract document

IAC-06-D2.P.1.04.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-06-D2.P.1.04.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

To get the manuscript, please contact IAF Secretariat.