Analysis of the Interaction Mechanisms Between Rocket Exhaust Plume and Sea Surface in Maritime Launch Conditions

Existing studies mainly address single launch configurations and provide limited comparison across thrust levels, engine layouts, and launch altitudes. This study establishes a CFD framework coupling rocket dynamics, the VOF multiphase model, overset mesh, and dynamic mesh techniques to simulate three sub-scale offshore launch variants. Five transient stages are identified from free-jet development to plume detachment. The results show that jet stagnation pressure excavates a water cavity, promotes reverse entrainment of high-enthalpy gas near the rocket base, and produces configuration-dependent drag recovery. Type B requires a higher initial launch height to avoid strong plumewater coupling, whereas Types A and C allow lower preliminary height windows when drag benefit and thermal recirculation risk are balanced.