Validation of hypersonic chemical equilibrium flow calculations using ballistic-range data

The hypersonic flow field over a sphere flying in a ballistic-range is numerically simulated for the purpose of validating a hypersonic chemical equilibrium flow solver. The numerical results obtained are compared with available experimental data on the stand-off distance and the shape of the detached bow shock wave. In the calculation, an adaptive mesh is employed for a crisp capturing of the shock wave. Comparison with the experimental data reveals that the equilibrium flow solver can yield a fairly accurate prediction of the flow field. Received 18 November 1997 / Accepted 10 November 1998