Follow this link to go to the text only version of nasa.gov
NASA - National Aeronautics and Space Administration
+ Contact NASA
Go

+ ATP Home
14'x22' Subsonic Wind Tunnel
14'x22' Subsonic Wind Tunnel Home
Quick Facts
Characteristics
Acquisition
Contact Information
Gallery
Facility Fact

Major clients have included the Department of Defense and aircraft manufacturers such as Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and Northrop Grumman.



3% BWB-450 model in the 14'x22' wind tunnel Helicopter Laser Velocimetry Rotor testing

The 14’x22’ Subsonic Wind Tunnel assesses conventional performance for low-speed tests of powered and unpowered models of fixed- and rotary-wing civil and military  aircraft over a wide range of takeoff, landing, cruise and high angle-of-attack conditions.
Facility Overview
This facility assesses conventional performance for low-speed tests of powered and unpowered models of various fixed- and rotary-wing civil and military aircraft over a wide range of takeoff, landing, cruise and high angle-of-attack conditions. The tunnel can be easily reconfigured for acoustic, tethered free-flight and forced-oscillation (dynamic stability) testing, as well as for motor-sports studies. Investigators can chose from either closed (walls, ceiling and floor) or open (floor-only) test-section arrangements.

Initially named the V/STOL Tunnel and, later, the 4 X 7 Meter Tunnel, the facility was constructed in 1970 to provide an improved understanding of the aerodynamics of vertical/short takeoff and landing (V/STOL) aircraft. Studies concentrated on the strong downwash generated by the V/STOL model-lift fans or jets, and the interaction of the boundary layer with the vertical or forward-facing, propulsion-flow components.

An extensive modification was completed in 1984 to improve airflow and expand capabilities for both acoustic and rotorcraft testing. In 1999, an automation system and new model carts were added. Major clients have included the Department of Defense and aircraft manufacturers such as Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and Northrop Grumman. Motor sports and vehicular tests have been conducted in cooperation with Old Dominion University.

Heavy-lift compound rotocraft model testing in the 14'x22' Subsonic Wind Tunnel at NASA Langley
 
Above: Heavy-lift compound rotocraft model testing in the 14 x 22 Foot Subsonic Wind Tunnel at NASA Langley.
 
+ Read more about our capabilities...
Further Information
NASA's ATP Program
Read about one of the largest, most versatile and comprehensive set of testing facilities in the nation.
+ View the fact sheet (PDF)
14- by 22-Foot Subsonic Tunnel
+ View the fact sheet (PDF)
Get Adobe Acrobat Reader
"The right facility at the right time" - NASA Aeronautics Test Program




+ NASA Web Privacy Policy and Important Notices
+ Freedom of Information Act
+ The President's Management Agenda
+ NASA Privacy Statement, Disclaimer,
and Accessibility Certification

+ Inspector General Hotline

NASA - National Aeronautics and Space Administration
NASA Official: Tony Springer
Last Updated: April 18, 2008
+ Contact NASA