Transonic Wind-Tunnel Tests of a Lifting Parachute Model

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Transonic Wind-Tunnel Tests of a Lifting Parachute Model

J. T. Foughner / J. F. Reed / E. C. Wynne

Wind-tunnel tests have been made in the Langley transonic dynamics tunnel on a 0.25-scale model of Sandia Laboratories' 3.96-meter (13-foot), slanted ribbon design, lifting parachute. The lifting parachute is the first stage of a proposed two-stage payload delivery system. The lifting parachute model was attached to a forebody representing the payload. The forebody was designed and installed in the test section in a manner which allowed rotational freedom about the pitch and yaw axes. Values of parachute axial force coefficient, rolling moment coefficient, and payload trim angles in pitch and yaw are presented through the transonic speed range. Data are presented for the parachute in both the reefed and full open conditions. Time history records of lifting parachute deployment and disreefing tests are included. Results of wind tunnel tests of a lifting parachute model variables include time, velocity, axial force coefficient, pitch angle, rolling moment coefficient, yaw angle, axial force; 7 figures include numeric data.