Third-generation reusable launch vehicle (RLV) systems are envisioned that utilize airbreathing and combined-cycle propulsion to take advantage of potential performance benefits over conventional rocket propulsion and address goals of reducing the cost and enhancing the safety of systems to reach earth orbit. The dual-mode scramjet (DMSJ) forms the core of combined-cycle or combination-cycle propulsion systems for single-stage-to-orbit (SSTO) vehicles and provides most of the orbital ascent energy. These concepts are also relevant to two-stage-to-orbit (TSTO) systems with an airbreathing first or second stage. Foundation technology investments in scramjet propulsion are driven by the goal to develop efficient Mach 3-15 concepts with sufficient performance and operability to meet operational system goals. A brief historical review of NASA scramjet development is presented along with a summary of current technology efforts and a proposed roadmap. The technology addresses hydrogen-fueled combustor development, hypervelocity scramjets, multi-speed flowpath performance and operability, propulsion-airframe integration, and analysis and diagnostic tools.
Technology Roadmap for Dual-Mode Scramjet Propulsion to Support Space-Access Vision Vehicle Development
2002
14 pages
Report
No indication
English
Jet & Gas Turbine Engines , Aircraft , Reusable launch vehicles , Supersonic combustion ramjet engines , Ascent propulsion systems , Systems analysis , Propulsive efficiency , Research and development , Propulsion system performance , Spacecraft launching , Engine airframe integration , Combustion chambers , Flow distribution , Cost reduction , Nasa programs , Propulsion system configurations
Roadmap for In-Space Propulsion Technology
NTRS | 2012
|Roadmap for In-Space Propulsion Technology
NTIS | 2012
|Roadmap for In-Space Propulsion Technology
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|