Entry Systems and Vehicle Development Branch

The Entry Systems and Vehicle Development Branch is responsible for performing and coordinating systems level integration for existing and future atmospheric entry vehicles, working closely with the Thermal Protection Materials, Aerothermodynamics, Thermophysics Facilities Branches. The primary role of the branch is the direct application of technologies and capabilities to analyze, design, develop, test, evaluate, manufacture, certify and operate atmospheric entry vehicles and systems. To facilitate the development of entry systems, the branch will perform systems level thermal performance, thermal-structural performance, induced and natural environment performance, and manufacturing assessments. The Branch pursues all phases of entry systems and vehicle development from early conceptual and preliminary design, through detailed design, qualification and acceptance, to final certification, systems production and operations. A core capability of the Branch is systems analysis and systems engineering, including: requirements development, risk and reliability assessments, configuration management, and verification and validation.