Controlled Hypersonic Flight Air Data System and Flight Instrumentation

Abstract : The main task of an air data system, namely to deduce from measurement on the body the aerodynamic free stream conditions will be outlined. Emphasis will also be given to the limitations of aerodynamic systems. A short review of the aerodynamic probe functions relating measured quantities to the desired free stream conditions and vehicle orientation will be given. After explaining the principle elements of an air data system the design of individual components will be outlined. The design of an air data system depends strongly on the flight envelope, re-entry trajectory and vehicle structure. Flight envelope and re-entry trajectory influence primarily the sensor range and sensor head design. Vehicle structure has a strong influence on the probe installments. The principal components are: Probe heads, Probe mounting elements, sensors, sensor electronics, harness and data acquisition system. In a similar way the design of calorimetric heat flux sensors will be explained. Testing and flight qualification are one of the mayor efforts during development of an air data system and flight instrumentation. Therefore the principal steps for these activities will also be outlined.