Role of computer simulation and physical experiment in investigations of space rocket system aerogasdynamics throughout the designing

The paper analyses the RSC Energia experience in using computer simulations to predict aerogasdynamic characteristics when designing rocket and space hardware. It outlines the problems in studying aerodynamic properties by analysis and by experiment. It shows how the ratio between characteristics determined by analytical and experimental methods changes over time, as well as the role of physical experiment in studying the aerodynamics of the hardware. It discusses the advantages and the drawbacks of the two mutually complementary methods of research. It provides a brief account of the technology of using computer simulations in industrial practice in order to determine aerodynamic properties of a product. It lays down conditions for successful introduction of analytical methods into design process. It presents some results of comparing analytical and experimental data for a reentry vehicle that has a cone segment shape which is now being designed by RSC Energia.