Aerothermodynamics Branch
The Aerothermodynamics Branch supports the design and development of advanced entry systems and technologies by providing integrated modeling, simulation, and testing capabilities in the areas of aerothermodynamics, hypersonic and high enthalpy fluid dynamics, shock layer radiation, and thermal protection system (TPS) sizing. The Branch plays an integral role in defining both atmospheric entry environments and the requisite thermal protection solutions
Location
Moffett Field, CA
NASA
Ames Research Center
Branch Chief
Jeffrey Hill
Focus Areas and Capabilities
Partnering With Us
The Aerothermodynamics Branch fosters mutually beneficial commercial partnerships through Space Act Agreements in accordance with the National Aeronautics and Space Act of 1958 and the Commercial Space Launch Act of 1984. We deliver high fidelity aerothermal databases required for the design and development of cutting-edge thermal protection systems to advance hypersonic technologies and spaceflight concepts. We also provide pre- and post- test computational fluid dynamics (CFD) in support services for arc jet test campaigns and flight experiments. Interested parties may contact the Branch Chief at jeffrey.p.hill@nasa.gov.
Learn More About The Entry Systems & Technology Division
Software Tools
The Aerothermodynamics Branch currently offers two software tools and a collection of supporting utilities:
NEQAIR – Nonequilibrium Radiative Transport and Spectra Program
Data Parallel Line Relaxation Code (DPLR)
CFD Utility Software Library
Data
The Aerothermodynamics Branch currently offers test data from the Electric Arc Shock Tube (EAST) dating back to 2009. The data consists of measurements of absolute radiance versus wavelength and shock position for entries relevant to Mars, Venus, Earth, Saturn and Uranus planetary entries.
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