Characterization of Water Impact Splashdown Event of Space Shuttle Solid Rocket Booster Using LS-DYNA

The ALE capability in LS DYNA is used to predict splashdown loads on a proposed replace- ment/upgrade of the hydrazine tanks on the thrust vector control system housed within the aft skirt of a Space Shuttle Solid Rocket Booster. Two preliminary studies are preformed in working towards conducting a full comprehensive analysis: An analysis of the proposed tank impacting water without supporting structure, and an analysis of actual space capsule water drop tests conducted at NASA’s Langley Research Center. Results from the preliminary studies provide confidence that useful predictions can be made by applying the ALE methodology to a detailed analysis of a 26-degree section of the skirt with proposed tank attached. Results for all three studies are presented and compared to limited experimental data. The challenges of using the LS DYNA ALE capability for this type of analysis are discussed.