On the simulation of the Space Shuttle main engine

The Space Shuttle main engine simulation is analyzed to determine the means to obtain a faster running simulation. In particular, the valve dynamics module is simulated using three different techniques: Euler´s method, Adams-Bashforth two-step method, and the matrix stability region placement two-step method. It is shown that, by choosing the integration method appropriately, a speed-up factor of about five can be achieved. The valve dynamics module simulation results are then used to make recommendations about the simulation of the Space Shuttle main engine