Project Type
individual
Authors' Class Standing
Christopher Nguyen, Senior
Lead Presenter's Name
Christopher Nguyen
Faculty Mentor Name
Dr. Predro J Llanos
Abstract
This study was conducted to better understanding of the XCOR Lynx vehicle. Because the Lynx development was halted, the best knowledge of vehicle dynamics can only be found through simulator flights. X-Plane 10 was chosen for its robust applications and accurate portrayal of dynamics on a vehicle in flight. The Suborbital Space Flight Simulator (SSFS) and Mission Control Center (MCC) were brought to the Applied Aviation Sciences department in fall 2015. This academic and research tool is a department asset capable of providing multiple fields of data about suborbital simulated flights. This tool will allow us to assess different aspects of a suborbital flight dynamics and a trajectory map was created. It was found that the XCOR Lynx is an unstable platform but has good glide capabilities. This information is of use for pilots who may someday fly the XCOR Lynx as well as air traffic controllers who may have Lynx operations at their airports.
Did this research project receive funding support (Spark, SURF, Research Abroad, Student Internal Grants, Collaborative, Climbing, or Ignite Grants) from the Office of Undergraduate Research?
Yes, Spark Grant
Flight Dynamics Study with the XCOR Lynx using the Suborbital Space Flight Simulator and Mission Control Center
This study was conducted to better understanding of the XCOR Lynx vehicle. Because the Lynx development was halted, the best knowledge of vehicle dynamics can only be found through simulator flights. X-Plane 10 was chosen for its robust applications and accurate portrayal of dynamics on a vehicle in flight. The Suborbital Space Flight Simulator (SSFS) and Mission Control Center (MCC) were brought to the Applied Aviation Sciences department in fall 2015. This academic and research tool is a department asset capable of providing multiple fields of data about suborbital simulated flights. This tool will allow us to assess different aspects of a suborbital flight dynamics and a trajectory map was created. It was found that the XCOR Lynx is an unstable platform but has good glide capabilities. This information is of use for pilots who may someday fly the XCOR Lynx as well as air traffic controllers who may have Lynx operations at their airports.