Outcomes from the BOLT Hypersonic Flight Experiments

Abstract

The paper highlights major outcomes from nearly a decade of research surrounding the three Boundary Layer Transition/Turbulence flight experiments (BOLT-1A, BOLT-2, and BOLT-1B) and associated preflight and postflight research related to those flights. The intent here is to summarize key findings to date through a review of associated literature from the BOLT program and to highlight the progress made in our present understanding of transition and turbulence from these flight programs. Major topics addressed include outcomes from wind-tunnel testing of this common geometry in many facilities over the years, key advancements in numerical simulation techniques motivated by the need to model physics on the complex BOLT geometry, progress in flight experimentation methodologies, the importance of combining hypersonic flight experiments with atmospheric measurements, and the value of programs like BOLT for accelerating workforce experience. A list of suggested focus areas for future work is provided.