Talon–P: CFD Simulations

This paper is a contribution to a special session focused on the analysis and optimization of a vehicle inspired by the Stratolaunch Talon–A vehicle, the baseline case of which we will refer to as Talon-P. Mach 6.0 flow over a generic boost glide vehicle was investigated through laminar CFD simulations. Comparisons were made between simulated results and experimental data collected in Purdue University’s BAM6QT hypersonic tunnel. Similar surface heating patterns, such as streaks on the lower and upper surfaces of the vehicle, were observed both in CFD simulations and experimental infrared imaging. Six different nose geometries were investigated, and overall good agreement between the experimental and simulated results was observed. Two configurations of the Talon-P experienced substantial disagreement between simulated predictions and experimental results; possible reasons for these discrepancies are discussed. The effect of nose geometry on downstream flow behavior is also investigated, with special emphasis on the vortical structures which form near the nose on the bottom surface of the geometry. The CFD results presented in this paper are part of a larger design, downselection, and analysis process.