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This unique national asset is a closed-circuit, continuous-flow, variable-density supersonic tunnel with two 4-foot by 4-foot by 7-foot test sections. Typical testing at the UPWT includes force and moment studies using strain-gauged balance instrumentation, discrete and global surface-pressure measurements, and the application of numerous techniques for flow visualization of on-and-off-surface flow characteristics. Studies involving jet effects, dynamic stability, model deformation, global-surface and off-body flow measurements and heat transfer can also be conducted.
A variety of techniques are employed in concert at the UPWT to provide a combined set of diagnostic-analysis tools for assessing local (on-surface discrete measurements) and global (on-and-off surface) flow-field effects. An extensive use of the Virtual Diagnostics Interface, or ViDI, is applied to examine large acquired databases from these multiple diagnostic tools in near real-time.
The UPWT has made crucial contributions to the development, assessment and optimization of advanced aerospace-vehicle concepts. The facility has supported such major research programs as the X-43 and X-43C; the Joint Strike Fighter; DARPA's Quiet Supersonic Platform; Mars Science Lander; and the Ares launch system and Orion crewed spacecraft. UPWT services have included database development during the configuration-design screening process; the initial phase in mission-specific configuration selection; and benchmarking aerodynamic and aerothermodynamic configurations for selected mission concepts.
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Above: Side view into the testing section of the 4-Foot Supersonic Unitary Plan Wind Tunnel at NASA Langley. |
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NASA's ATP Program
Read about one of the largest, most versatile and comprehensive set of testing facilities in the nation.
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4-Foot Supersonic Unitary Plan Wind
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"The right facility at the right time" - NASA Aeronautics Test Program |
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