Axient's Partnership with NASA’s SLS Loads and Dynamics Team

Unlocking the Frontiers of Aerospace: Axient’s Pioneering Analysis Support

At Axient, we pride ourselves on our unwavering commitment to excellence in aerospace analysis. Our collaboration with NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) Loads and Dynamics branch stands as a testament to our dedication to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in aerospace engineering.

For years, Axient has been privileged to work alongside NASA, leveraging our expertise to provide unparalleled analysis support for some of the most groundbreaking projects in space exploration. Through our partnership, we’ve had the opportunity to contribute to the Space Launch System (SLS) program, as well as other critical initiatives within NASA’s portfolio.

Our role in the SLS program is multifaceted and crucial to its success. NASA entrusts us with Finite Element Models of the SLS, Payloads, and Mobile Launcher, alongside vital aerodynamic, engine thrust, and guidance, navigation, and control (GNC) data. With these invaluable resources in hand, we undertake a comprehensive array of analysis events, including Rollout, Prelaunch, Liftoff, Ascent, Separation/Staging, and Second Stage Flight.

What sets Axient apart is our ability to extract actionable insights from vast and complex datasets. We specialize in interpreting large datasets that often defy conventional analysis programs, employing our in-house analysis codes crafted with expertise in C, Fortran, Matlab, and Python. Through advanced techniques such as Craig-Bampton Dynamic reduction, we distill intricate Finite Element Models into manageable yet highly informative models, facilitating more efficient analysis processes.

Our capabilities extend beyond conventional boundaries, encompassing fluid-structure interaction and propellant slosh modeling. Axient’s proficiency in these areas enables us to deliver solutions that not only meet, but exceed expectations, shaping the design of every sub-contractor and element of the SLS, while also considering critical Human Factors for astronauts.

Program Spotlight: Stratolaunch

One of our notable achievements includes our involvement with the Stratolaunch program, where Axient, (as DCI), led the Integrated Loads Team. Tasked with analyzing the Aircraft, Mating and Integration System (MIS), and Launch Vehicle, we executed a range of critical analyses, including Taxi, Maneuvering, Separation, and Landing coupled loads analysis.

Our approach to the Stratolaunch program exemplifies our commitment to innovation and excellence. By combining Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) databases with tire modeling and non-linear 747 Strut/Oleo force/displacement/velocity lookup tables, we delivered solutions that outperformed conventional methods, surpassing expectations set by existing solutions such as LS-Dyna.

Adapting to the Future of Aerospace

In an ever-evolving landscape of aerospace exploration, the need for Systems of Systems (SoS) and Family of Systems (FoS) analysis capability has become increasingly apparent. At Axient, we embrace these trends, continually evolving our approach to meet the demands of tomorrow’s challenges.

In addition to our partnership with NASA, Axient plays a pivotal role in supporting commercial launch vehicle companies and spaceports. Leveraging our unique tools and expertise, we assist in obtaining Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approval for operations, conducting thorough analyses of flight trajectories, airspace infringements, and debris fields to inform critical safety decisions.

At Axient, we’re not just pioneers in aerospace analysis; we’re partners in shaping the future of space exploration. With our unwavering dedication to excellence and innovation, we stand ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow, unlocking new frontiers, accelerating possible, and pushing the boundaries of what’s after next in aerospace engineering.