Computational Techniques to Generate Space Launch System Aerodynamic Databases

Abstract

This document describes the reasoning and trade studies used to evaluate tools for constructing the aerodynamic lineload databases for the liftoff and transition phases of flight for the Space Launch System. Three computational fluid dynamics codes (USM3D, FUN3D, and Kestrel) were investigated with various turbulence models as well as detached eddy simulation variants for the launch vehicle in free air and in proximity to the tower. Decisions were made mostly based on results from brief developmental studies performed in response to specific, unforeseen challenges that were encountered in the analysis of a given configuration. The need to develop databases in a timely manner, as well as to accurately capture the expected leeward-wake flowfield characteristics, led to the selection of the Kestrel flow solver with its delayed detached eddy simulation method, the Spalart–Allmaras turbulence model, and the adaptive mesh refinement capability in the off-body Cartesian grid region.