Performance Methods for Lifting Entry Vehicle Range Analysis

摘要

Parameter optimization methods were applied to maximize lateral range with and without down-range constraints to produce performance footprints. Three lifting entry vehicles with maximum lift-to-drag ratios of 1.89, 2.2, and 2.6, respectively, were used. A simplified bank control procedure was developed which closely appproximated the optimal footprint results in the case where no heating constraints were imposed.