Ultrafast laser absorption spectroscopy for characterizing shock-heated gases

Completed TRL 3 (started at 2, targeting 3)

Description

Currently there is large uncertainty in modeling the non-equilibrium plasma produced by space vehicles during atmospheric entry. As a result, excessive thermal protection systems are utilized which can increase cost and reduce vehicle payload. To address this problem, we propose to develop a new class of ultrafast laser diagnostics which is capable of providing a detailed characterization of the non-equilibrium thermochemistry produced by high-Mach shock waves. The fundamental knowledge gained through this work will enable NASA to more accurately predict heat transfer to space vehicles, thereby reducing the cost of space missions.

Benefits

The proposed ULAS diagnostics will help optimize the heat-shield design process and reduce mission costs by advancing our understanding of nonequilibrium gases and plasmas encountered during atmospheric entry. ULAS will reduce ground-testing costs by providing temporally and spatially resolved measurements of multiple temperatures and multiple species per test, thereby reducing the number of required tests. ULAS measurements can also advance atmospheric entry models by revealing phenomena occurring on the shortest time-scales of interest (ns) which cannot be resolved with SOA absorption diagnostics. The proposed work will enable the PI to build a relationship with NASA and focus his research and career path on advancing NASA’s mission.

Details

Technology area	Entry, Descent, and Landing > Vehicle Systems > Atmosphere Characterization
Program	Space Technology Research Grants (STRG)
Lead organization	Purdue University-Main Campus, West Lafayette, IN
Start date	2020-10-19
End date	2024-10-18

Project contacts

Listed on TechPort itself — the most direct way to ask about this specific project.

Aaron M Brandis — aaron.m.brandis@nasa.gov
Jay H Grinstead — jay.h.grinstead@nasa.gov
Christopher Goldenstein

How to get involved

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