Return-from-orbit Spaceplane Configurations with Varying Geometry, Missions, and Planetary Environments
- Author
- Leonardo Pinero-Perez
- Written
- 2018 · Thesis, University of Texas at Arlington
- Original
- Full thesis · 105 pages
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This thesis intends to remove underlying conceptual assumptions for spacecraft design and build a parameterized, physics-based approach based on geometry to generate a continuum of re-entry vehicle configurations. These vehicle configurations are then assessed by their payload, orbital and atmospheric maneuvering, and descent performance capabilities. This assessment is designed such that different missions on different planetary bodies can be analyzed.
In addition to selected historical configurations, the specific geometric parameters are then analyzed to determine how specific changes in certain parameters affect aircraft performance. In this way, the values for basic vehicle geometry can be selected in the proper combination to form the best configuration for a given mission.
Lastly, a regression methodology is established to use this physics-based model to converge on optimal designs initialized by selected point configurations.
Faculty Mentor: Bernd Chudoba