Deutsch: Schweben außerhalb des Bodeneffekts / Español: Flotar Fuera del Efecto Suelo / Português: Flutuar Fora do Efeito Solo / Français: Vol Hors Effet de Sol / Italiano: Volo Fuori dall'Effetto Suolo /
The Hover out of ground effect (HOGE) is hovering at greater than one rotor diameter from the ground where re is no interaction between rotor downwash and the ground.
Description
'Hover Out of Ground Effect' (HOGE) in the space industry refers to the operation of a rotorcraft or spacecraft in a hovering condition at an altitude above ground level where the ground effect is minimal or nonexistent. This condition typically occurs when a rotorcraft or spacecraft ascends to an altitude above its effective rotor diameter or aerodynamic lift surface, causing the ground effect to diminish. HOGE operations require precise control and coordination of propulsion systems, control surfaces, and onboard sensors to maintain stable flight and altitude. This capability is essential for tasks such as vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL), aerial reconnaissance, cargo transport, and crewed missions in environments with limited or no atmosphere, such as planetary surfaces or microgravity environments.
Treatment and Risks
- Treatment:
- Aerodynamic Design: Spacecraft and rotorcraft are designed with aerodynamic surfaces and propulsion systems optimized for HOGE operations, including specialized rotor designs and thrust vectoring capabilities.
- Flight Control Systems: Advanced flight control systems are employed to monitor and adjust propulsion and control surfaces to maintain stable hover and altitude control during HOGE operations.
- Risks:
- Power Limitations: HOGE operations require significant power output from propulsion systems, which can strain onboard power generation and storage systems and limit mission duration.
- Altitude Control: Maintaining stable altitude during HOGE operations can be challenging, especially in dynamic environments with variable atmospheric conditions or gravitational forces.
- Environmental Hazards: HOGE operations near planetary surfaces or in microgravity environments may expose spacecraft or rotorcraft to hazards such as dust, debris, or surface irregularities, posing risks to equipment and personnel.
Examples
- Using 'Hover Out of Ground Effect' maneuvers for precision landing of spacecraft on celestial bodies such as the Moon or Mars.
- Employing 'Hover Out of Ground Effect' capabilities during the final stages of spacecraft descent onto planetary surfaces to avoid obstacles and ensure safe touchdown.
- Conducting 'Hover Out of Ground Effect' operations for spacecraft inspection and maintenance tasks in low-gravity environments.
- Integrating 'Hover Out of Ground Effect' techniques into spacecraft propulsion systems for precise stationkeeping and maneuvering in orbit.
- Utilizing 'Hover Out of Ground Effect' capabilities for controlled ascent and descent of planetary exploration rovers from landers or ascent vehicles.
These examples illustrate various applications of 'Hover Out of Ground Effect' maneuvers in the space industry, emphasizing their importance for safe and precise operations during planetary exploration and surface missions.