9- by 7-Foot Supersonic Wind Tunnel Facility
The 9′ x 7′ Supersonic Wind Tunnel is part of the Unitary Plan Wind Tunnel complex at NASA Ames Research Center at Moffett Field, California. It is a closed-return, variable-density tunnel with an asymmetric, sliding-block nozzle.
Focus Areas and Capabilities
Learn more about the specifications and capabilities of this facility.
Characteristics
The 9×7 SWT is a closed-return, variable-density tunnel with an asymmetric, sliding-block nozzle. It is one of three separate test sections powered by a common drive system. Interchangeability of models among the UPWT test sections allows testing across a wide range of conditions.
Quick Facts
Airflow is generated by an 11-stage, axial-flow compressor powered by four variable-speed, wound-rotor induction motors. High-pressure air at 3000 psi is digitally controlled with preheating available and over 6 million scf of storage.
Data Acquisition
The 9×7 SWT continues to provide aerodynamic data for NASA’s manned spaceflight efforts, including the Constellation Program, whose goal it is to create the rockets and spacecraft necessary to take explorers to Earth orbit, the Moon, and eventually, to Mars.
9- by 7-Foot Supersonic Wind Tunnel Gallery
Contact Information
9’x7′ Supersonic Wind Tunnel
Contact: Maureen Delgado
(650) 604-1620
NASA Ames Research Center
Moffett Field, CA 94035
(650) 604-5000
Fact Sheet
The 9- by 7-Foot Supersonic Wind Tunnel (9×7 SWT) facility is part of the Unitary Plan Wind Tunnel (UPWT) complex at NASA Ames Research Center at Moffett Field, California.
The 9×7 SWT is a closed-return, variable-density tunnel with an asymmetric, sliding-block nozzle. It is one of three separate test sections powered by a common drive system.
Read the 9- by 7-Foot Supersonic Fact Sheet
AETC Supersonic Facilities
NASA operates four Supersonic Facilities. The 10- by 10-Foot Supersonic Wind Tunnel, the 9- by 7-Foot Supersonic Wind Tunnel, the 8- by 6-Foot Supersonic Wind Tunnel and the 4-Foot Supersonic Unitary Plan Wind Tunnel.
Learn More About Supersonic Facilities
AETC Ground Facilities
AETC sets the strategic direction for NASA’s versatile and comprehensive portfolio of ground test aeronautics research capabilities.
Among these assets are subsonic, transonic, supersonic, and hypersonic wind tunnels and propulsion test facilities at Ames Research Center, Glenn Research Center, and Langley Research Center.
Learn More About AETC Ground Facilities
NASA Ames Wind Tunnels
Get further information about the 9’x7′ SWT and 11’x11′ TWT facilities at NASA Ames.
The Ames Wind Tunnel Operations Division welcomes all inquiries regarding potential tests in our facilities. Initial contact should be made as early as possible so that a place can be assured on the schedule and all long lead items such as hardware design and fabrication can be accomplished. It is best if this initial contact can be made at least seven months before the desired test time.
Learn More About NASA Ames Wind Tunnels
