Free-Flight Aerodynamic Testing of the Skylon Space Plane

The determination of aerodynamic coefficients for complex high-speed vehicles still requires experimental measurement. This paper details the development free-flight measurement technique within University Oxford High Density Tunnel. In particular, a novel image processing is developed calculating position model from video. study focuses on high Reynolds number data subscale Skylon space plane Reaction Engines. Testing was undertaken at Mach 7 test condition replicating flight an altitude 63.5 km. Results lift, drag, and pitching moment were obtained over range angles attack. Lift coefficient nearly linear attack tested, drag parabolic in shape, but sensitive to yaw. vehicle also shown be statically unstable, common characteristic canard configuration vehicles.