At 07:41 PM 4/4/2003 -0800, Randall Clague wrote:On Fri, 4 Apr 2003 17:15:54 -0800 (PST), Michael Wallis <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
A truncated plug nozzle would qualify as an aerospike engine, but I gather the one in question was more a big engine with 5 nozzles than a true aerospike (or plug nozzle for that matter).
The engine was an Aerotech L series; only the nozzle was different. It was nice little stainless steel cone - not truncated - with 5 nozzles around the perimeter. So what I'm hearing is that while this is a plug nozzle, and even a spike, it isn't an aerospike. Yes?
Yes. A plug nozzle and an aerospike are two variations on a single concept, and should have similar performance characteristics. The aerospike will, of course, be lighter.
-p
Has ERPS been planning on doing a "real" aerospike, complete with base bleed? I don't think it is justifiable until the plug spike becomes objectionably heavy or long, which it won't be at the size you have discussed.
John Carmack
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