Images of Supersonic Flow
Supersonic flow can be visualised using a Schlieren optical system. This system highlights regions with high density gradients in the flow and will thus show shock waves and expansion waves. Images can be further enhanced by using digital picture edge detection methods or methods of enhancing intensity gradients.
 Cone at Mach 1.7 (schlieren) |
 Cone at Mach 2.2 (schlieren) |
 Cone at Mach 3.0 (schlieren) |
 Cone at Mach 1.7 (digital enhanced) |
 Cone at Mach 2.2 (digital enhanced) |
 Cone at Mach 3.0 (digital enhanced) |
 Blunt Cone at Mach 2.2 (digital enhanced) |
 Blunt Cone Nose Close up (digital enhanced) |
 Cylinder at Mach 2.2 (digital enhanced) |
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