MECHANICAL DESIGN OF THE 50-INCH MACH 10-12 TUNNEL

Abstract
The design of a 50-inch-diameter, continuous-flow, Mach 10-12 wind tunnel, currently operating at Mach 10 only, is described and related operational experience discussed. The tunnel is equipped with an axisymmetric, contoured nozzle and with a fast model injection/retraction system. Control and data readout systems are described.