Present and Future of Space: Modeling and Simulation

In May, the chapter, in collaboration with Ansys, organized the conference titled 'Present and Future of Space: Modeling and Simulation of Space Missions.'

The event aimed to showcase modeling and simulation technologies applied to space missions. The conference was introduced by Lt. Gen. Antonio Tangorra, ITAF (Ret.), chapter president, and moderated by Col. Francesco Marradi, ITAF (Ret.), who highlighted the strategic value of numerical simulations.

Keynote speeches were the following:

- Will Marsden, Ansys, outlined how digital engineering and simulations are revolutionizing spacecraft design, improving global collaboration and reducing development time.
- Fabio Paglia, Avio, presented the aerodynamics of the Vega C launcher, explaining how the combination of experimental tests and CFD simulations have improved stability and efficiency.
- Matteo Tofanari, Leonardo, showed the use of Zemax in the optical design of space electro-optical payloads.
- Giuseppe Corrao, Matteo Aroni and Domenico Loricchio, Ansys, analyzed plasma dynamics in hypersonic flights and communication blackout problems, emphasizing the importance of accurate simulations.
- Antonio Di Paola and Salvatore Sagnelli, Avio, talked about modeling interference between antennas and equipment with Ansys HFSS.
- Valeria Boffula and Paolo Gnata, Avio, addressed the difficulties in CFD simulation of liquid propellant rockets (such as Vega-E), highlighting the benefits in system design and stability.
- D. Sciulli, G. Fabiani, M. Lanuti, Thales Alenia Space Italia, illustrated the thermal analysis of antennas during the aerobraking phase, crucial for safety and functionality.
- Fabiani and Sciulli then went on to discuss the thermal simulation of the high-gain antenna of the BepiColombo mission, to ensure operability and durability.
- Luca Mellone and Ivan Di Criscio, CIRA, discussed atmospheric re-entry, explaining the importance of experimental validation integrated with Ansys modeling for vehicle safety.
- Marco Gallipoli, Astradyne, concluded with a presentation on the optimization of satellite solar panels using the Ansys Start-Up Bundle, highlighting the potential of the SolarCube as an innovative, lightweight and cost-effective solution.

The conference demonstrated how advanced modeling and simulation are now essential tools for space innovation, with applications ranging from aerodynamic and thermal design to communication and propulsion. The various presentations illustrated and demonstrated Ansys' proposals for the use of advanced modeling and simulation for space missions.

Event Photographs: