A Laser-Sheet Flow Visualization Technique for the Large Wind Tunnels of the National Full-Scale Aerodynamics Complex

by National Aeronautics and Space Administration

A flow visualization technique for the large wind tunnels of the National Full Scale Aerodynamics Complex (NFAC) is described. The technique uses a laser sheet generated by the NFAC Long Range Laser Velocimeter (LRLV) to illuminate a smoke-like tracer in the flow. The LRLV optical system is modified slightly, and a scanned mirror is added to generate the sheet. These modifications are described, in addition to the results of an initial performance test conducted in the 80- by 120-Foot Wind Tunnel. During this test, flow visualization was performed in the wake region behind a truck as part of a vehicle drag reduction study. The problems encountered during the test are discussed, in addition to the recommended improvements needed to enhance the performance of the technique for future applications. Reinath, M. S. and Ross, J. C. Ames Research Center NASA-TM-102793, A-90082, NAS 1.15:102793 RTOP 505-61-01...

34 pages, Paperback

Published August 9, 2018

About the author

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is an independent agency of the U.S. federal government responsible for the civil space program, aeronautics research, and space research.