When spacecraft return to Earth, one of the tensest parts of the mission is the radio black out that occurs as the vehicle re-enters the atmosphere. Travelling at hypersonic speeds of between Mach 8 and 15, the spacecraft heats and breaks down molecules in the atmosphere causing a plasma to form. It is this plasma sheath that prevents radio communication.
Contract awarded to design a 'hypersonic spaceplane,' which is as cool as it sounds - T... - 2 views
1 - 4 of 4
Showing 20▼ items per page