Macdonald, Robyn

Research

Prof. Macdonald's research deals with modeling and simulation of hypersonic flows. In particular, she focuses on topics related to high-temperature gas phase chemistry, turbulence and transition modeling using a combination of large eddy simulation and direct numerical simulation.

hypersonic flows, non-equilibrium thermochemistry, chemical kinetics, computational fluid dynamics, turbulence modeling, large-eddy simulation, transition modeling

ASEN 3111 - Aerodynamics
Primary Instructor - Fall 2021 / Fall 2022
Develops the fundamental concepts of aerodynamics and provides a working knowledge for their application to the design of aircraft and launch vehicles operating at various speeds and altitudes, as well as the atmospheric forces on satellites.
ASEN 3711 - Aerodynamics
Primary Instructor - Fall 2023 / Fall 2024
Introduces models for the analysis of subsonic, transonic, and supersonic flow. Teaches methodologies for the prediction of aerodynamics forces and moments experienced by aircraft. Develops a fundamental understanding of gas dynamics in nozzles with application to aircraft and rocket propulsion.
ASEN 5151 - Fundamentals of Gas Dynamics
Primary Instructor - Spring 2021 / Spring 2022 / Spring 2023 / Spring 2024
Presents the fundamental topics of gas dynamics, focusing on compressible flows but providing connections to incompressible topics. Topics include analysis of quasi-one-dimensional flow, the partial differential equations governing inviscid compressible flows, linearized flow theory, supersonic flow around cones, and the method of characteristics applied to both steady two-dimensional supersonic flows, and unsteady one-dimensional flows. Recommended prerequisite: ASEN 3111 or equivalent.
ASEN 6950 - Master's Thesis
Primary Instructor - Fall 2021