Numerical simulation of plume–surface interaction and lunar dust dispersion during lunar landing using four engines.

This article focuses on the numerical simulation of plume–surface interactions and lunar dust dispersion during the descent of a four-engine lunar lander at various altitudes and lunar surface slopes. Using the direct simulation Monte Carlo (DSMC) method combined with convolutional neural networks, the study analyzes flow field characteristics, erosion of the lunar surface, and the resulting lunar dust particle trajectories and impact velocities on the lander. It identifies a critical altitude near 6–6.5 meters where upward backflow from plume interactions intensifies, increasing dust impact risks, with this altitude slightly decreasing as lunar surface slope increases up to 10°. Dynamic simulations incorporating changes in lander altitude and attitude demonstrate the feasibility of real-time lunar dust visualization during landing, providing valuable insights for hazard assessment and mitigation in future multi-engine lunar landing missions.