SSTO reentry effects upon ascent

[SpaceToad]

Hey all,

Recently I've tried making some SSTO's, and my ascent profile works quite well, until I hit around 600-800m/s at 19000. I begin seeing reentry effects, and I am pretty sure that is increasing drag by a ton. What should I do. Ascend higher to get out of the atmosphere?

[0111narwhalz]

As far as I can tell, the ram heating is just heating. The only real aerodynamic effect that depends upon speed is the sound barrier. I'm pretty sure Mach 1 is slower than 600m/s at that altitude, but don't quote me on it.

[SpaceToad]

600m/s is Mach 1.763... Roughly Mach 2. I'll attach pictures of the phenomena I am experiencing soon.

Edit: Mach 1.763 at SEA LEVEL. This would mean that due to the thinner atmosphere, it would be higher, but given the phenomena we would assume I am going faster than Mach 1. Pictures will be added soon.

Edited May 28, 2015 by SpaceToad