Three-Dimensional Crater Formation Measurements During Plume-Surface Interaction in a Reduced Gravity Environment Using a Drop Tower

Plume surface interaction experiments were conducted in a 4.27m tall drop tower facility to achieve 0g conditions. A stereo photogrammetry technique was used during 1g and 0g tests to capture crater formation, allowing for the quantification of crater depth and volume evolution. Three nozzle heights, non-dimensionalized by nozzle diameter, of 25D, 40D, and 50D and three nozzle pressures of 5, 10, and 15 psig were investigated at both 0g and 1g. Results from the 0g experiments were compared to the results obtained using the same nozzle conditions under 1g conditions. The results indicated that crater evolution occurred more rapidly during 0g conditions, resulting in deeper and wider craters compared to those formed under 1g.