This facility is part of the Unitary Plan Wind Tunnel complex at NASA Ames Research Center at Moffett Field, California, where generations of commercial and military aircraft and NASA space vehicles, including the space shuttle, have been designed and tested.
The 9 X 7 SWT is a closed-return, variable-density tunnel with an asymmetric, sliding-block nozzle. It is one of two separate test sections powered by a common drive system. Interchangeability of models among the Unitary test sections allows testing across a wide range of conditions. Airflow is generated by an 11-stage, axial-flow compressor powered by four variable-speed, wound-rotor, induction motors.
The 9 X 7 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 Fact Sheet
NASA Ames Windtunnels
Get further information about the 9’x7′ SWT and 11’x11′ TWT facilities at NASA Ames.
