Radiative Gas Dynamics of MSL at Angle of Attack

Three-dimensional numerical simulation radiative gasdynamic (CFD/RadGD) models of physically and chemically nonequilibrium flow fields around space vehicle are used for investigation of radiative aerothermodynamics of the Mars Science Laboratory (MSL) entry, descent and landing (EDL) system under angles of attack for conditions of Martian entry [Edquist,K.T., Hollis, B.R., Johnston, C.O., Bose, D., White, T.R., and Mahzari, M., “Mars Science Laboratory Heat Shield Aerothermodynamics: Design and Reconstruction,” JSR, 2014. Vol.51. No.4]. The first part of the paper contains a description of the nonequilibrium radiative gasdynamic model which is used for numerical investigation of thermophysics of the Martian entry. The second part describes numerical simulation results obtained with the use of the three dimensional code NERAT(3D)+ASTEROID. Distinguishing feature of obtained data is the comparison of convective and radiative heating the MSL's surface from the forward stagnation line up to the backside. It is demonstrated that radiative heating of MSL space vehicle has its origin in presence of molecules CO2, CO, O2 in shock layer and in its wake. Calculations were performed with the use of multigroup spectral model taking into account most significant radiative mechanisms of absorption and emission. Last part of the paper contains comparison of calculated data with experimental data, presented in the paper mentioned above.