The specialists of TsAGI have completed another stage of testing of a reusable rocket system model. The tests have been carried out using TsAGI’s T-103 subsonic wind tunnel in accordance with the order placed by Khrunichev State Research and Production Space Centre, TsAGI’s press-service reports.

The research program in the area of landing characteristics of the return winged unit of the reusable rocket system included more than 40 launches and was aimed at studying its aerodynamic characteristics, controllability, stability and airflow visualization. Earlier, in spring 2013, the reusable rocket system was tested for flow visualization and heat fluxes distribution. The tests were being carried out in the UT-1M shock tunnel (at M=6) and in the T-117 hypersonic tunnel (M=7.5).

“We have received some valuable results even on the initial stages of the research. Some of the claimed parameters have been confirmed. At the same time we have been able to obtain some new data, which needs to be analyzed and tested again using improved models and extended range of experimental parameters. For instance, high heat fluxes on the center wing section surprised us — now we have to make changes in the vehicle’s design. Moreover, it turned out that the current layout of the reusable rocket makes it unstable on its course. The obtained information gives us new food for thought, research helps us elaborate the vehicle’s conceptual design and carry out full-scale engineering development”, - Sergei Drozdov, director of the TsAGI high-speed aircraft thermo-aerodynamics department, said.

The next stage of model’s aerodynamic testing is scheduled for September and October 2013. It will be carried out in the supersonic T-116 wind tunnel and the T-128 trans-sonic tunnel.