Rocket nozzle. Formation of shock diamonds in Mach 3 supersonic flow

Grayscale visualization of local density gradients (Schlieren-like) Modelled and visulized in FlowVision Flow exits the combustion chamber of a rocket engine (which has very high temperature and pressure) and travels through the nozzle, accelerating to supersonic velocity. Upon leaving the nozzle, the pressure difference leads to the flow stream being compressed by the ambient air. This interaction of the flow with the atmosphere results in the formation of shock (Mach) diamonds