This paper describes the concept of a space-tethered atmospheric system, a hybrid craft consisting of an orbiting spacecraft and a downward-deployed aerodynamically-configured satellite. Such a system could conduct both hypersonic aerothermodynamics research and atmospheric science research in the outer atmosphere (about 150-90 km). Descriptions of specific space-tethered atmospheric systems, scheduled tether flight validation experiments, and a development strategy for a three-phased aerothermodynamics research capability culminating in a 'flying wind tunnel' are provided.
Tethered aerothermodynamic research for hypersonic waveriders
International Hypersonic Waverider Symposium ; 1990 ; College Park, MD, United States
1990-01-01
Conference paper
No indication
English
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