Research

For the desing of high speed flying object represented by an atmospheric re-entry capsule and a planetary re-entry object, the different method from conventional aircraft design is necessary.The method should be specialized in aerodynamic heating and change of aerodynamic characteristics due to dissociation of gas. Our laboratory is conducting basic and applied researches on aerodynamic heating and aerodynamic charasteristics of atmospheric re-entry vehicles by using Japanese largest experimental facilities in the Jaxa Kakuda Space Center. Facilities include the workd largest and highest-performance High Enthalpy Shock Tunnle (HIEST), a Free-Piston-Driven Expansion Tube (HEL-X), and a transonic ballistic range (HEK-G).

【Scope of Research】

Researches on aerodynamic heating and aerodynamic characteristics of re-entry vhicle in hypersonic flow
Development of free flight testing method for super short duration and high accuracy.
Researches on space flying bodies by using expansion tube (HEK-X) and ballistic range (HEK-G)

JAXA Kakuda Space Center

Our Laboratory researches in JAXA Kakuda Space Center which leads development in rocket engines. Lately the center is also developing a future compound engine and performes experiments of atomospheric re-entry.

Spacecraft Thermal and Fluids Systems Laboratory

Our laboratory is collaborating with Spacecraft Thermal and Fluids Systems Laboratory, Institute of Fluid Science, Tohoku University.