Altitude Compensating Nozzles (ACN)
Project Introduction
An Altitude Compensating Nozzle (ACN) enables the nozzle flow to adjust with the ambient pressure as it decreases with altitude so that the plume is never significantly over or under-expanded. The performance of ACNs can be near optimal over most of the flight. Hence, mission integrated performance with an ACN could be higher than with a Conventional Bell (CB) nozzle. The purpose is to advance the TRL of ACNs through static ground tests, and ultimately by demonstrating this technology through flight test. The primary near-term objective is to advance Dual Bell (DB) nozzle technology, and ultimately the team has plans to advance the TRL of other ACN conceptual designs (e.g. aerospike, clustered aerospike, etc.).
More »Anticipated Benefits
A study at MSFC shows that a 1st stage aerospike nozzle produces: Up to a 3% gain in 1st stage average Isp and Thrust. Up to a 10% payload benefit in Delta IV Medium to LEO.
More »Primary U.S. Work Locations and Key Partners
| Organizations Performing Work | Role | Type | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
Armstrong Flight Research Center
(AFRC)
|
Lead Organization | NASA Center | Edwards, CA |
Marshall Space Flight Center
(MSFC)
|
Supporting Organization | NASA Center | Huntsville, AL |
Primary U.S. Work Locations
-
Alabama
-
California
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Organizational Responsibility
Responsible Mission Directorate:
- Space Technology Mission Directorate (STMD)
Lead Center / Facility:
- Armstrong Flight Research Center (AFRC)
Responsible Program:
- Center Innovation Fund: AFRC CIF
Project Management
Program Director:
Project Manager:
Principal Investigator:
Project Duration
Technology Maturity (TRL)
| Start: | 2 |
| Current: | 2 |
| Estimated End: | 4 |
Technology Areas
Primary:
- TA 1 Launch Propulsion Systems
- TA 1.3 Air Breathing Propulsion Systems
