The project demonstrates a proof-of-concept of a next generation bio-inspired morphing wing inspired by academic research of the Peregrine Falcon morphology. Asymmetric span morphing has previously been demonstrated for UAV roll control via in-plane partial span change. This design has full bird-like span change and a unique out-of-plane modality. This offers novel drag reduction characteristics when made to form an airflow channel in conjunction with a fixed surface such as the fuselage, in “cupped wing” flight.

The design of a re-entry vehicle and the analysis of its performance are extremely challenging tasks. The difficulties increase when the understanding of its transient behaviour is sought and grow even further if this transient is affected by uncontrolled phenomena such as the shape change caused by the ablation of the thermal protection material used as heat shield.

This work has primarily focused on establishing scenarios where inflatable devices could be the most useful. Given that these missions rely on aerodynamic drag that results in (potentially significant) heating, the authors have sought to find solutions to minimize heat fluxes acting on the device surface, and especially keeping it within the limits of flexible/foldable TPS materials for the aerocapture scenario.

Over the last few years schemes based on minimal kinetic models for the Boltzmann equation are becoming increasingly popular as a reliable alternative over conventional Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) techniques. Due to the flexibility afforded by its close connection to the kinetic theory recent research has led to major improvements, including consistent models for aerothermodynamics and highly compressible flow in low gravity operating conditions.

This activity proposes to implement a reference model for computer simulation of storage of H2 which takes into account the role of molecular excited states. Different materials will be studied as possible candidates (intermetallic compounds, hydrides, organic liquids, nanotubes) in accordance with the existing practice in industrial applications or proposing alternative materials.

.