Super-Orbital Expansion Tube (HEK-X)・Ballistic Range (HEK-G)

The Hayabusa capsule re-entered into atmosphere with hyper fast velocity such as 12 km/s. This fast velocity is called "Super-orbital flow" and the development of wind tunnel is challenging. Our laboratory developed super-orbital expansion tube (HEK-X) which reproduce flow velocity 12 km/s. We have conducted evaluation, improvement of the HEK-X, development of measurement technique, and research on super-orbital flow. We are also conducting research on dynamic instability of re-entry capsule in transonic flow by using the ballistic range for transonic free flight testing (HEK-G). Development of micro Lunar probe OMOTENASHI is also progressing by using the vacuum ballistic range.


Super-Orbital Expansion Tube (HEK-X)


Ballistic Range for Transonic Free Flight Testing (HEK-G)


Development of Lunar Probe by Using Vacuum Ballistic Range