Reusable Flight configuration on Zenodo (RFZ)
In recent years, controllable first stages have emerged as the most promising concept for reusable launch vehicles (RLVs), thanks in no small part to the commercial success of the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. These first stages can autonomously return to the launch site after multiple deceleration maneuvers (retro-propulsion). This approach is now being pursued by other spacefaring nations and holds the potential for significant cost savings in future launch systems. Numerical methods for flow simulation are essential when designing these vehicles, as many maneuvers must be executed at high speeds, subjecting the rocket to considerable thermal and mechanical stresses. Unfortunately, numerical and experimental reference data for this application are lacking, hindering the validation of simulation-based methods and the comparison of different codes. Aerospace engineers currently have access to a range of well-studied and standardized reference configurations for conventional aircraft, but such resources are lacking for reusable spacecraft.
This project aims to fill this gap by providing the research community with an open-source model of an RLV. This facilitates a collaborative approach to exploring the challenges associated with RLV development. Until now, there have been limited studies on phenomena such as surface heating, vehicle aerodynamics during reentry and glide phases, interaction of exhaust jets with each other and with the structure, as well as stability and control. The intention is for this model to serve as a consistent validation case, promoting collaboration with international research institutions and providing a broader literature base for the development of future spacecraft.
Key features
- Development of an Open-Source Model for Reusable Launch Vehicles (RLVs)
- Providing an open-source model to support research and development of reusable launch vehicles.
- Promotion of International Collaboration
- The model serves as a consistent validation case, supporting collaboration with international research institutions.
- Focus on Critical Phenomena
- Investigating surface heating, vehicle aerodynamics, exhaust plume interactions, as well as stability and control during reentry and glide phases.
- Lack of Numerical and Experimental Reference Data
- Filling the gap in missing reference data for simulation-based validation of RLV designs.
Areas of application
The open-source RLV model can be used in both CFD simulations and experimental testing to improve the design and validation of reusable launch vehicles. In CFD, it supports the simulation of aerodynamics and aerothermodynamics, especially during high-speed phases like reentry and glide. This helps optimize vehicle shape, propulsion systems, and heat management. Experimentally, the model can be used in wind tunnel testing to generate datasets for the validation of CFD simulations. As an open-source tool, it encourages collaboration, allowing researchers to share data and improve both simulation accuracy and experimental validation.
Links
To download the CAD geometry and the current results database, please follow the link to the Zenodo platform: https://zenodo.org/communities/rfz-model?q=&l=list&p=1&s=10&sort=newest
License notice
The open-source geometry of the Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV) is made freely available to the research community under an open-source license. This allows users to freely download, modify, and distribute the model for non-commercial research and development purposes.
By providing this model under an open-source license, the intention is to promote transparency, collaboration, and innovation within the aerospace sector. Researchers, engineers, and institutions are encouraged to contribute to the development and refinement of the model, fostering a cooperative environment for solving the challenges associated with reusable space vehicles.