3D Rocket Trajectory Simulator

A Python script that simulates the 3D flight path of a powered rocket, factoring in variable gravity, variable mass, a dynamic atmosphere, aerodynamic drag, wind, and thrust.

Features

• Models forces like gravity, drag, and wind.
• Uses a time-step simulation to calculate the flight path.
• Considers when the engine is on and calculates thrust
• Simulates variable mass as fuel is consumed
• Calculates gravity at each time step
• Finds the drag coefficient based on mach number at each time step
• Finds air density, temperature, and pressure at each altitude
• Generates a detailed plot of the trajectory using Matplotlib.

How to Run

1. Clone this repository.
2. Create and activate a virtual environment.
3. Install the required packages: pip install -r requirements.txt
4. Run the simulation: python3 main.py

Testing

This project includes a rigorous physics validation suite to ensure simulation accuracy.

Physics Validation

Tests individual physics formulas (ISA model, gravity, drag, thrust vectors) against known physical laws:

python3 physics_tests.py

Simulation Scenarios

Runs the simulator through various configurations (vertical launch, optimal range, wind effects) to verify trajectory behavior:

python3 simulation_tests.py