Drag prediction and transition in hypersonic flow

Abstract

This paper discusses progress on issues such as instability studies, nose-bluntness and angle-of-attack effects, and leading-edge-contamination problems from theoretical, computational, and experimental points of view. Also included is a review of wind-tunnel and flight data, including high-Re flight transition data, the levels of noise in flight and in wind tunnels, and how noise levels can affect parametric trends. A review of work done on drag accounting and the role of viscous drag for hypersonic vehicles is also provided.