The 10x10 has a long history of space shuttle testing. For this test, momentary firing of one or more of the shuttle model engines created thrust vectors that were recorded and analyzed to investigate any resulting aerodynamic changes. In the propulsion cycle, the tunnel operates by continuously drawing outside air through an air dryer and exhausting it back to the outside. This mode is used for models that introduce contaminants into the air stream or when the tunnel air-heater is used to simulate flight temperatures. During aerodynamic operation, the tunnel runs as a closed system at variable air densities.
Dry air is added to maintain test conditions.
Continuous operation across the entire speed and altitude regime offers users great flexibility and productivity during testing. Two model buildup areas with full checkout services are available. In addition, the tunnel offers a variety of specialized support systems to meet each customer's unique needs, such as liquid and gaseous fuel, a schlieren system, and high-speed data acquisition. The facility is controlled and operated by a digital distributed control system to maximize data quality and minimize operational costs. The 10x10 has its own expert support staff who draw on their deep base of experience with supersonic test hardware fabrication and installation, test techniques, and project management.