An apparatus and method is provided for attenuating aerospace engine noise
and unsteady pressure fluctuations associated with high velocity exhaust
flows. The apparatus and method reduce acoustic fatigue damage to
aerospace vehicles that may be caused by the reflection of exhaust energy
from landing and/or launch platforms. The apparatus includes a passive
treatment area associated with the platform operable for reducing the
magnitude of the reflected sound waves and unsteady pressure fluctuations
from the high velocity exhaust mass flow exiting from the engine. The
passive treatment area may include a layer of sound absorptive material,
at least one set of roughness elements for disrupting high velocity flow
structures. A protective cover may be positioned over the passive
treatment area for permitting exhaust flow to pass therethrough while
still providing adequate structure to support the weight of the aerospace
vehicle.