Experiences with a space–time multigrid method for the optimal control of a chemical turbulence model

Lambda–omega systems provide a universal model to investigate two‐species reaction diffusion problems. In the case of fast reaction kinetics and small diffusion, these systems evolve to turbulent behaviour. A class of open‐loop optimal control problems governed by lambda–omega systems in the turbulent regime is investigated. Optimal solutions are characterized by optimality systems consisting of two pairs of reaction diffusion equations with opposite time orientation. These systems are solved by a space–time multigrid scheme suitable for the turbulent setting. Numerical examples are given where the control drives the chaotic system to form regular patterns. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.