Aerodynamic Characterization of a Non-axisymmetric Body at Supersonic Speeds

This work experimentally characterizes the aerodynamic performance of a non-axisymmetric chined body derived from a 2:1 elliptical cross section in comparison to a standard axisymmetric body. Wind tunnel tests at Mach 2 and 4 employed shadowgraph flow visualization and six-component force balance measurements to measure forces, moments, and observe flow features over an angle of attack range from −8◦ to 10◦. The non-axisymmetric body, with a 26% increased planform area, produced higher lift coefficients and improved aerodynamic efficiency compared to the baseline, while also increasing drag. Pitching moment characteristics and negligible rolling moments at nonzero roll angles indicate similar longitudinal stability and no self-induced roll. Shadowgraph visualization revealed flow features and structures, such as a larger region of flow separation in the non-axisymmetric case, that correlate with the force balance trends. These results indicate that unconventional, non-axisymmetric cross-sections with larger planforms can enhance aerodynamic efficiency in slender bodies at supersonic speeds, with similar stability characteristics to a conventional, axisymmetric body.