A finite-volume, adaptive grid algorithm applied to planetary entry flowfields

Abstract

An adaptive grid, finite volume method has been applied to problems of planetary entry in computing complete flowfields. The adaptation algorithm is implicit in nature and is keyed to resolve user-specified gradients. The finite-volume algorithm is explicit, utilizing a maximum time step advancement at each grid point to accelerate convergence to the steady state. The present version of the code is for the laminar flow of a perfect gas. The role of the adaptation algorithm in resolving various features of blunt body/wake flow for planetary entry conditions is emphasized. The algorithm is demonstrated on problems involving massive blowing from the surface of the Galileo probe and moderate blowing from the surface of a sphere.