Sea-level transitioning dual bell nozzles

A detailed study was conducted to evaluate the impact of sea-level transitioning dual bell nozzles on the payload mass delivered into geostationary transfer orbit by Ariane 5 ECA. For this purpose, a multitude of Vulcain 2 and Vulcain 2.1 nozzle extension contours were designed. The two variable parameters were the position of the wall inflection and the constant wall pressure of the nozzle extension. Accounting for the two variable parameters, an approved analytical method was applied to predict the impact of the dual bell nozzles on the payload mass.