Abstract
Supersonic wind tunnels remain essential tools for high-speed aerodynamics research, yet the characterization of their free-stream conditions remains technically challenging and lacks standardized criteria for defining "good" flow quality. While traditional calibration methods rely on intrusive probes, recent advances in optical diagnostics offer new opportunities for non-intrusive characterization. In this work, we demonstrate a novel use of Tomographic Particle Image Velocimetry (Tomo-PIV), combined with numerical simulations, as a methodology for supersonic wind tunnel calibration. The approach is applied to the recently upgraded Missouri S&T Supersonic Wind Tunnel, where Tomo-PIV measurements reveal uniform flow with low angularity and low turbulent noise under three operating conditions. Results are corroborated by pitot probe data and CFD analysis, with agreement within 2 % across methods. These findings establish Tomo-PIV as a viable and generalizable diagnostic for the calibration of supersonic wind tunnels.
Recommended Citation
J. Gary et al., "A Combined Tomographic Particle Image Velocimetry and Numerical Simulation Approach for Supersonic Wind Tunnel Calibration," Aerospace Science and Technology, vol. 168, article no. 111168, Elsevier; Elsevier Masson, Jan 2026.
The definitive version is available at https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ast.2025.111168
Department(s)
Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
Publication Status
Full Text Access
Keywords and Phrases
Supersonic wind tunnel; Tomographic particle image velocimetry.
International Standard Serial Number (ISSN)
1270-9638
Document Type
Article - Journal
Document Version
Citation
File Type
text
Language(s)
English
Rights
© 2026 Elsevier; Elsevier Masson, All rights reserved.
Publication Date
01 Jan 2026
