The requirement for routine, reliable, inexpensive launch service drives the interest in the development of a fully reusable launch vehicle (RLV). In theory, single-stage vehicle operations would resemble aircraft operations where high initial development costs are offset by relatively low recurring costs. However, the large size of a single-stage-to-orbit vehicle and the advanced engine and structural technology requirements could overshadow advantages gained through streamlined operations. This analysis explores the feasibility of using thrust augmentation on a fully reusable core vehicle in order to lessen the disadvantages of a fully single-stage vehicle. Advanced technology systems and two 86,000 kg solid strapon motors are incorporated into a vehicle designed to deliver an Atlas-class payload. This study shows that thrust augmentation significantly decreases vehicle size, decreases development risk and improves longitudinal stability characteristics. The thrust augmentation reduces vehicle insertion mass by 40% and reduces the vehicle’s sensitivity to the increases in dry mass growth often experienced during development, thus reducing development risk. Thrust augmentation also moves the center of gravity location forward, thus improving longitudinal stability characteristics and maximizing the vehicle’s reentry cross range capability.
Single stage and thrust augmented reusable launch vehicle stability and performance study
Space technology and applications international forum - 1998 ; 1998 ; Albuquerque,New Mexico (USA)
AIP Conference Proceedings ; 420 , 1 ; 1039-1044
1998-01-15
6 pages
Conference paper
Electronic Resource
English
Single Stage and Thrust Augmented Reusable Launch Vehicle Stability and Performance Study
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