Retro-propulsion in rocket systems: Recent advancements and challenges for the prediction of aerodynamic characteristics and thermal loads

Abstract

This paper presents a review of recent literature on the application of retro-propulsion in earth based rocket systems, with a specific focus on the recent advancements and challenges associated with the prediction of aerothermal and aerodynamic characteristics of re-usable boosters. It gives an overview of current system architectures and mission profiles, while discussing the trends in future vehicle design. The effects of various flight conditions on thermal loads and vehicle aerodynamics are discussed, with particular attention given to the interactions between plume and vehicle, as well as the interplay between individual nozzle exhausts. A short evaluation of wind tunnel testing capabilities and scaling challenges is given, before the use of computational fluid dynamics for retro-propulsion applications is discussed. Finally, a summary is given, which emphasises future needs surrounding the accurate prediction of the vehicle aerothermal and aerodynamic characteristics.