Benchmark Data for Validation of CFD Codes Used to Simulate NASA Space Shuttle Main Engine Induced Flow at Liftoff

Dantec Dynamics was contracted to support NASA in providing benchmark data for validation of CFD codes used to simulate Space Shuttle main engine induced flow at liftoff. With the Space Shuttle’s Return to Flight approaching, engineers at NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) are working to ensure a safe return to flight. Test data collected included Schlierens of plume structure, fog based flow visualization, Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) and Hot Film Anemometry of the induced flow field velocity.