Radiation Phenomena in Planetary Entries

Abstract

Radiative heating phenomena occurring in planetary entry flights are reviewed for the purpose of educating those who are not familiar with the problem. How the radiative heat transfer rates to the Apollo entry vehicle were measured and analyzed are first described. Next, the effects of thermo-chemical non-equilibrium on radiation are summarized. Then the radiation problems in entry flights into other planets are reviewed. Finally, unsolved problems are enumerated.