Hypersonic Aerothermodynamics: Past, Present and Future

Abstract

This is a written version of the keynote speech delivered at the International Symposium on Hypersonic Aerothermodynamics – Recent Advances held in Bangalore, India, from December 6th to 10th, 2012. In this document, what was accomplished in the past, the present status, and what is expected in the future in the field of hypersonic aerothermodynamics are reviewed. Solved problems are categorized into four items; unsolved problems into twelve items, and emerging problems into four items. Removing one degree uncertainty in trim angle of attack, studying the thermochemical phenomena in a hydrogen-heliummethane mixture, and entry flights of meteoroids are cited as the tasks for the future.