Performance Modeling and Simulation

Spiral Technology provides a variety of modeling and simulation services to the Air Force and NASA. Working in the context of aerodynamics and flight mechanics, we study, develop, and apply methods of:

• Parameter identification to estimate aircraft stability and control derivatives from flight test data
• Trajectory optimization in support of NASA Reusable Launch Vehicle flight test plans via the Program to Optimize Simulated Trajectories (POST) and Optimal Trajectories by Implicit Simulation software packages
• Analytical prediction of performance characteristics (lift, drag, etc.) for unpowered reentry lifting body configurations

Support for in-flight aero and fluid dynamic experiments utilizing laser diagnostics is also available.