NASA Logo

NTRS

NTRS - NASA Technical Reports Server

Back to Results
Aerodynamic challenges of ALTThe approach and landing test (ALT) of the Space Shuttle Orbiter presented a number of unique challenges in the area of aerodynamics. The purpose of the ALT program was both to confirm the use of the Boeing 747 as a transport vehicle for ferrying the Orbiter across the country and to demonstrate the flight characteristics of the Orbiter in its approach and landing phase. Concerns for structural fatigue and performance dictated a tailcone be attached to the Orbiter for ferry and for the initial landing tests. The Orbiter with a tailcone attached presented additional challenges to the normal aft sting concept of wind tunnel testing. The landing tests required that the Orbiter be separated from the 747 at approximately 20,000 feet using aerodynamic forces to fly the vehicles apart. The concept required a complex test program to determine the relative effects of the two vehicles on each other. Also of concern, and tested, was the vortex wake created by the 747 and the means for the Orbiter to avoid it following separation.
Document ID
19850008602
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Hooks, I.
(NASA Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center Houston, TX, United States)
Homan, D.
(NASA Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center Houston, TX, United States)
Romere, P. O.
(NASA Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center Houston, TX, United States)
Date Acquired
August 12, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1985
Publication Information
Publication: Space Shuttle Tech. Conf., Pt. 1
Subject Category
Space Transportation
Accession Number
85N16911
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.
No Preview Available