New scattering kernel for gas-surface interaction

In the frame of the kinetic theory of gases, some scattering kernels for gas-surface interaction are reviewed, and a new scattering kernel is introduced. Comparisons with experimental data for the drag coefficient in hypersonic free-molecular flow are made. The data obtained by the Gottingen group by means of rarefied gas wind tunnel experiments, at stagnation temperatures of the gas of the same order of the target temperature, are examined. Several other data regarding satellite conditions of flight are also considered.