Maddock, C. A., Ricciardi, L., West, M., West, J., Kontis, K. , Rengarajan, S., Evans, D., Milne, A. and McIntyre, S. (2018) Conceptual design analysis for a two-stage-to-orbit semi-reusable launch system for small satellites. Acta Astronautica, 152, pp. 782-792. (doi: 10.1016/j.actaastro.2018.08.021)
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Abstract
This paper presents the conceptual design and performance analysis of a partially reusable space launch vehicle for small payloads. The system employs a multi-stage vehicle powered by rocket engines, with a reusable first stage capable of glided or powered flight, and expendable upper stage(s) to inject 500 kg of payload into low Earth orbits. The space access vehicle is designed to be air-launched from a modified aircraft carrier. The aim of the system design is to develop a commercially viable launch system for near-term operation, thus emphasis is placed on the efficient use of high TRL technologies and on the commercial potential of the technical design. The vehicle design is analysed using a multi-disciplinary design optimisation approach to evaluate the performance, operational capabilities and design trade-offs. Results from two trade-off studies are shown, evaluating the choice wing area and thus aerodynamic characteristics, and the choice of stage masses and engines selection on the mission performance.
| Item Type: | Articles |
|---|---|
| Additional Information: | This work was partially funded by the UK Space Agency through the National Space Technology Programme (NSTP) Sub-Orbital and Small Launcher Research Projects (Grant RP10G0415A02) and by the European Space Agency General Support Technology Programme (ESA RFP/3-14989/17/NL/KML/fg). |
| Status: | Published |
| Refereed: | Yes |
| Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: | Kontis, Professor Konstantinos and Rengarajan, Dr Sriram |
| Authors: | Maddock, C. A., Ricciardi, L., West, M., West, J., Kontis, K., Rengarajan, S., Evans, D., Milne, A., and McIntyre, S. |
| College/School: | College of Science and Engineering > School of Engineering > Autonomous Systems and Connectivity |
| Journal Name: | Acta Astronautica |
| Publisher: | Elsevier |
| ISSN: | 0094-5765 |
| ISSN (Online): | 0094-5765 |
| Published Online: | 21 August 2018 |
| Copyright Holders: | Copyright © 2018 IAA |
| First Published: | First published in Acta Astronautica 152:782-792 |
| Publisher Policy: | Reproduced in accordance with the copyright policy of the publisher |
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