Lines of Energy Deposition for Supersonic∕Hypersonic Temperature∕Drag-Reduction and Vehicle Control

Abstract

Lines of energy are deposited ahead of supersonic and hypersonic vehicles in order to create a low‐density channel, through which a vehicle can travel with dramatically reduced drag. Temperature and pressure are both also reduced on the front surfaces of the vehicle, while density and pressure are increased at the vehicle base. When applied off‐center, this technique can be used to control the vehicle, employing the entire body as the control surface and eliminating the need for actuators. Results for drag‐reduction, temperature‐reduction, and control forces are presented here.