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http://dx.doi.org/10.5139/JKSAS.2020.48.10.745

Aerodynamic Characteristics of the Grid Fins on SpaceX Falcon 9  

Lee, HyeongJin (Dept of Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering, Graduate School, Korea Aerospace University)
Cho, WooSung (Dept of Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering, Graduate School, Korea Aerospace University)
Ko, SangHo (School of Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering, Korea Aerospace University)
Lee, Yeol (School of Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering, Korea Aerospace University)
Publication Information
Journal of the Korean Society for Aeronautical & Space Sciences / v.48, no.10, 2020 , pp. 745-752 More about this Journal
Abstract
A numerical study was carried out to evaluate the aerodynamic characteristics of the supersonic grid fins installed on SpaceX Falcon 9. The unit-grid-fin concept was utilized for more efficient and simpler 3-D steady flow calculations. Pre- and post-correction processes that accounted the interference effects by the angle of attack of the missile, the influences of the outer frame of the grid fin and the connecting rods were improved in the study, and it was demonstrated that the present correction method was more accurate as compared to previous studies. Finally, the present approach was applied to evaluate the aerodynamic characteristics in transonic/supersonic flights of SpaceX Falcon 9 with various angle of attacks.
Keywords
Supersonic; Grid Fin; Unit Grid Fin; Shock Wave; CFD;
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