Network packet

Engineering

Aerospace engineering

Computer science

Launch vehicle

Geology

Computer network

Mechanical engineering

Boundary layer

Physics

Payload (computing)

Remote sensing

Astrobiology

Aeronautics

The ESA European Space Agency is currently developing the project EXPERT – Experimental Re-entry Vehicle Test-bed. The EXPERT capsule features a generic simple shape and will perform a sub-orbital ballistic hypersonic flight; with a selection of major shape parameters to avoid any surface active oxidation, degradation and flow contamination. In the frame of Expert Project, CIRA has covered a double role: Payloads Coordinator with the main objectives to supervise all scientific aspects of embarked experiments, to coordinate all main and critical mechanical tests, to harmonize and optimize their integration on the EXPERT vehicle and their interfaces from mechanical, electrical and software point of view: and as Principal Investigator of 3 Payloads corresponding to the following experiments: a) Natural LTT Laminar-To-Turbulent Transition, b) SWBLI Shock Layer – Boundary layer Interaction ahead the ceramic flaps, c) Flying Winglet – UHTC Sharp Hot Structure “SHS”. In this paper a detailed overview of the designed experiment, correlation with the theoretical aspects, results of the on-ground qualification activities and expected results from the data collected in the coming flying mission are reported and discussed.

CIRA Experiments and Payloads flying on EXPERT - The ESA Experimental Re-Entry Vehicle