Session: 09-05-01: Applied Mechanics, Dynamic Systems, Experimental and Computational Methods, Modeling and Virtual Simulations of Dynamic Structures, Advanced Materials and Testing

Paper Number: 142760

142760 - Image Analysis of the Dynamics of Reusable Launch Vehicle 

The advent of reusable rocket technology represents a pivotal shift towards sustainability and efficiency in space exploration. Among these advancements, SpaceX's Falcon 9 First Stage stands out, known for its ability to launch into orbit and return to Earth for repeated flights. This development has lowered cost barriers to space exploration, thereby sparking an era of unprecedented scientific discovery, commercial partnerships, and innovation. Flight control of reusable rockets in terms of their kinetics from re-entry to landing is essential to promote a safe and efficient rocket return. In this sense, understanding the detailed dynamic characteristics of the flight helps us to identify the required maneuvers for a safe landing and critical phases regarding the kinetics. In this study, our goal is to reconstruct the trajectory of SpaceX's Falcon 9 First Stage using only telemetry data from the January 2nd, 2024 launch. We also estimate the engine flow rates required for maintaining the trajectory. Addressing a gap in existing literature, this research provides a detailed empirical analysis using real-time, publicly available data, thereby further contributing to the accessibility of aerospace engagement.

Our methodological approach involved extracting time, speed, and altitude data from the publicly streamed launch video. We reconstructed the booster's telemetry from stage separation to landing by applying fundamental kinematics equations and graphical analysis. Newton’s Second Law and principles of linear and angular momentum were then utilized to calculate the net forces acting on the booster throughout its trajectory. By deriving drag coefficients from the booster's rotating geometry, we isolated engine forces from drag and gravitational forces, enabling the determination of engine flow rates.

Our findings intricately map the journey of SpaceX's Falcon 9 First Stage through detailed velocity, acceleration, and booster angle graphs that vividly illustrate the inherent complexity of reusable rocket technology. These results match both theoretical predictions and the observed timing of burns in the launch video, validating the precision of our trajectory reconstruction. The derived engine flow rates, indicative of fuel consumption patterns throughout the mission, show low use of fuel, which is crucial to maintaining reduced costs associated with reusable rocket technology as an efficient pathway for future space exploration.

This study provides a detailed empirical analysis of the Falcon 9 First Stage, enriching both academic and practical understanding of its operational dynamics. A comprehensive literature review indicates that trajectory validation and engine flowrate extrapolation from live-streamed telemetry data are relatively unexplored, as related papers utilize extensive computational models or in-depth flight data provided directly by SpaceX. By analytically applying publicly accessible validating telemetry data, this paper facilitates broader engagement with space missions without the need for extensive infrastructure. This methodology provides unique educational and research opportunities by allowing researchers, enthusiastics, and the public to connect with space flights as they happen. Additionally, it provides a way for media to use real-time data and graphs to further engage their audience. As the industry moves toward more sustainable and cost-effective practices, the lessons learned from the Falcon 9 First Stage's development and operation will undoubtedly inform future innovations in aerospace technology.

Presenting Author: Douglas Fontes Westmont College

Presenting Author Biography: Douglas Fontes is currently an assistant professor in the Engineering Program at Westmont College. Recently, He concluded a postdoctoral research at the Florida Space Institute, University of Central Florida, working with numerical modeling of multiphase flow. He received his doctorate in Mechanical Engineering (2018) in the thermo-fluid area, investigating spray formation in a liquid jet in crossflow configuration. Dr. Fontes has vast experience with numerical modeling of complex thermo-fluid phenomena, such as turbulence, compressible flows, natural and forced convection, and two-phase flows. Dr. Fontes also has experience in teaching courses related to thermo-fluid, the resistance of materials, and calculus, often using active learning methodologies, such as Team-Based Learning.

Authors:

Ainsley Martin Westmont College
Gavin Stay Westmont College
Abigail Lingel Westmont College
Douglas Fontes Westmont College