Splash is a wind-weighted 6 degree-of-freedom (6DOF) rocket simulation with statistics-based impact analysis capability. Splash is intended not just for the nominal trajectory analysis that most simulations are, but also for splash pattern generation consistent with FAA/OST requirements. This means that Splash can provide the data used to determine not just a nominal impact point but an impact zone complete with statistics to back up the likelihood of a vehicle impact in any given region. No other simulation package available at a reasonable price(1) offers this capability.
Splash provides more capability and tracks more variables than other consumer-level simulation packages available today (and thus, produce higher fidelity results). Splash’s features include:
To better illustrate what this all means, imagine your typical rocket simulation.... The simulation will say that the rocket goes up and comes down in a certain location. Question: What are the odds that the actual rocket would impact the exact location specified? Answer: About zero.
So how close to the simulation specified location can you expect your rocket to land? Most simulations will provide no insight as to the answer of that second question. Splash provides a realistic idea of where the rocket might land.
The figure below is a plot listing 250 potential impact points of a particular rocket. The distribution of the impact points illustrates not just a nominal impact point, but provides a level of confidence with respect to the likelihood of an impact in any given region. Such data is indispensable in pre-launch safety analysis and is also of use in determining possible locations for wayward rockets. It is this capability that sets Splash apart.
[1] By research and belief. The author is prepared to retract this statement the moment he is made aware of another simulation package of similar capability and price is made known to it.
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