NewsPhysics

Engineers at NASA's Armstrong Flight Research Center in Edwards, California, have conducted flight tests of a new wing concept designed to maximize natural laminar flow. This initiative, named Crossflow Attenuated Natural Laminar Flow (CATNLF), aims to improve aircraft aerodynamic efficiency by manipulating airflow over the wing surface. The tests are part of NASA's ongoing effort to advance aviation and push the limits of aerodynamics, a tradition that dates back nearly 80 years at this center.

The primary goal of this technology is to maintain smooth and orderly laminar airflow over as much of the wing surface as possible. Laminar flow drastically reduces aerodynamic drag compared to turbulent flow, leading to greater fuel efficiency and reduced environmental impact. The CATNLF concept focuses on attenuating crossflow instabilities, which are a key factor in the transition from laminar to turbulent flow, especially on swept wings.

“Engineers at NASA's Armstrong Flight Research Center in Edwards, California, have conducted flight tests of a new wing concept designed to maximize natural laminar flow.”