On bolide flight modelling

Abstract

One of the interesting applications of a classical problem on movement of a solid body in resistant media is considered which is connected to estimation of trajectories of space bodies such as meteorites in the atmosphere of the Earth (or other planets). One feature of these objects is the absence of their “correct” form. Therefore, the description of the aerodynamic influence on this body even in the simplest case has some peculiar properties. For the considered model it is established that the rectilinear forward movement of the braking bolide does not exist. With some additional simplifications it was proved that a “steady” curvilinear motion exists. It is shown that aerodynamics can cause much greater curvature of a trajectory than gravitation. An analysis of the stability of these motions is carried out.