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RESEARCH NOTE / FLIGHT DYNAMICS & CONTROL

Multiphysics Modelling and Simulation of a Hypersonic Vehicle

A modular, low-order simulation framework for studying the interaction between atmosphere, aerodynamics, propulsion and variable-mass flight dynamics.

RESEARCH STATUS PRELIMINARY SIMULATIONMETHOD COUPLED MULTIPHYSICS MODELLING

01 / METHODOLOGY

Research Approach

This project addresses the integration challenge by developing a modular, low-order simulation framework that couples atmospheric conditions, supersonic aerodynamics, propulsion, and variable-mass flight dynamics. Each component is formulated from governing equations or documented engineering correlations, with assumptions and validity limits stated explicitly. The framework is intended to assess how these models interact during flight and to provide a basis for comparison with established technical references.

02 / SIMULATION OUTPUTS

Preliminary Results

The figures below show preliminary simulation outputs for flight trajectory, altitude, Mach number, dynamic and static pressure, and atmospheric temperature. They are presented to examine model behaviour and identify trends; they are not validated vehicle performance claims.

On small screens, swipe horizontally over a plot to read its axis labels.

Flight trajectory showing altitude against downrange distance, reaching approximately 47 kilometres.
FIGURE 01Flight trajectory
Simulated vehicle altitude increasing over time to approximately 47 kilometres.
FIGURE 02Altitude over time
Simulated Mach number increasing over time and passing the Mach 5 hypersonic boundary.
FIGURE 03Mach number over time
Simulated dynamic pressure and static air pressure over time.
FIGURE 04Dynamic and static pressure
Atmospheric temperature in kelvin plotted against altitude in kilometres.
FIGURE 05Atmospheric temperature by altitude

03 / IMPLEMENTATION

Tools & Methods

The modelling workflow is organised around transparent, reproducible numerical analysis and clearly documented assumptions.

  • Visual Studio CodePython development, debugging and project workflow.
  • Python 3.11+Modular implementation of the coupled model components.
  • NumPyNumerical arrays and scientific computing.
  • MatplotlibPlotting and inspection of model outputs across the flight envelope.

This is a preliminary modelling study, not a vehicle design or flight-performance claim. Model fidelity is limited by the stated assumptions, correlations and validity ranges.

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