Two-dimensional descent through a compressible atmosphere: Sequential deceleration of an unpowered load

Published 4 March 2010 Europhysics Letters Association
, , Citation M. P. Silverman 2010 EPL 89 48002 DOI 10.1209/0295-5075/89/48002

0295-5075/89/4/48002

Abstract

Equations, based on Rayleigh's drag law valid for high Reynolds number, are derived for two-dimensional motion through a compressible atmosphere in isentropic equilibrium, such as characterizes the Earth's troposphere. Solutions yield horizontal and vertical displacement, velocity, and acceleration as a function of altitude and ground-level temperature. An exact analytical solution to the equations linearized in the aero-thermodynamic parameter is given; in general the equations must be solved numerically. The theory, applied to the unpowered fall of a large aircraft stabilized to flat descent by symmetrical, sequential deployment of horizontal and vertical decelerators, shows that such an aircraft can be brought down with mean peak deployment and impact decelerations below 10g.

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10.1209/0295-5075/89/48002