Aerodynamics

Overview

The Aerodynamics Integrated Project Team (IPT) operates within the Aerodynamics and Flight Dynamics Department, focusing on the precise modeling of aerodynamic forces and comprehensive analysis of flow behavior generated by our flight systems. The team mainly employs Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) tools to accurately predict aerodynamic coefficients across various flight regimes.

Our simulation results undergo rigorous validation through comparative analysis against both theoretical predictions from specialized aero-prediction software and empirical data acquired during flight tests. This multi-layered validation approach ensures the reliability of our computations.

Furthermore, the team provides critical technical guidance for aerodynamic configuration decisions, optimization of the design and placement of key components including air brakes, stabilizing fins, Pitot tubes, and pressure measurement probes. These configuration recommendations directly impact vehicle stability, control effectiveness, and data collection capabilities.

External Aerodynamics

We conduct CFD simulations across a spectrum of boundary conditions that represent various flight parameters, including velocity, pressure, and altitude. We examine different flight scenarios, such as steady-state flows, and consider both compressible and incompressible regimes, as well as subsonic and supersonic speeds. Additionally, our team performs plume simulations to analyze the behavior of motor exhaust and its interaction with external airflow, essential for understanding the overall aerodynamic performance. Upon completing the simulations, we evaluate convergence and perform detailed post-processing to extract aerodynamic coefficients, pressure distributions, and flow visualizations.

fluidics

To evaluate and improve the performance of our rocket’s internal fluidics, we use CFD simulations to analyze pressure drops, mass flow rates, cavitation, and other related phenomena. We perform both steady-state and transient simulations, depending on the case. Additionally, we use CFD for heat transfer analysis in the biliquid engine. We’re also working on simulating the rocket injector and combustion processes.

Wind-Tunnel Tests

Wind tunnel tests are performed to have an experimental comparison with data generated by simulations. The main studies conducted concern the aerodynamic forces acting on the airbrakes and the calibration curve of the Pitot sensor.

Pressure Measures Consulting

As the aerodynamic data we gather affects the work of all departments working on integral parts of the rocket, we provide consulting regarding some specifications they need to follow. For example, we provide the Structures Department characteristics such as size, position and diameter of the pressure taps and probes they then design and produce.

Requirements

Base

  • Proactive approach to problem solving;
  • Critical thinking;
  • Knowledge of basic concepts of fluid dynamics;
  • Basic knowledge of Matlab and/or Python;
  • Interest in fluid dynamics, experimental and/or computational.

Advanced

  • Knowledge of aerodynamics and turbulence;
  • Familiarity with the use of meshing software;
  • Familiarity with the use of CFD solvers and basic CFD concepts;
  • Knowledge of the fundamental aspects of a wind tunnel test;
  • Familiarity with propulsion systems.