@inproceedings{714dcde88fd947d4a8ddb50b4093e24a,
title = "Conceptual design analysis for a two-stage-to-orbit semi-reusable launch system for small satellites",
abstract = "This paper presents the conceptual design and performance analysis of a partially reusable space launch vehicle for small payloads. The system uses a multi-stage vehicle with rocket engines, with a reusable first stage capable of glided or powered flight, and expendable upper stage(s) to inject 500 kg payload in different 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. The vehicle design are analysed using a multi-disciplinary design optimisation approach to evaluate the performance, operational capabilities and design trade-offs. Results from two trade-offs 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. ",
keywords = "space access, trajectory optimisation, space transportation",
author = "Christie Maddock and Federico Toso and Michael West and Joanne West and Kostantinos Kontis and Sriram Rengarajan and David Evans and Andy Milne and Stuart McIntyre",
note = "The paper was originally presented at the 68th International Astronautical Congress, 25-29 September 2017, Adelaide – Australia – www.iafastro.org; International Astronautical Congress, IAC ; Conference date: 25-09-2017 Through 29-09-2017",
year = "2017",
month = sep,
day = "25",
language = "English",
booktitle = "68th Proceedings of the International Astronautical Congress",
url = "http://www.iafastro.org/events/iac/iac-2017/",
}