Is a versatile orbit transfer stage feasible
Abstract
Orbital Transfer Vehicle (OTV) concepts include modular, all-propulsive, and aeromaneuvering configurations. Engine candidates include expander or staged combustion cycles which are throttleable from 20K pounds thrust and multiple installations of new technology engines in the 3K range. The best direction of OTV development may be an evolutionary program starting with Centaur, growing to larger reusable systems, and ultimately using aerodynamic braking to return to the Orbiter or to earth.
- Publication:
-
Conference on Advanced Technology for Future Space Systems
- Pub Date:
- 1979
- Bibcode:
- 1979atfs.conf..594H
- Keywords:
-
- Aeromaneuvering Orbit To Orbit Shuttle;
- Feasibility Analysis;
- Orbit Transfer Vehicles;
- Flying Platforms;
- Geosynchronous Orbits;
- Large Space Structures;
- Mission Planning;
- Orbital Assembly;
- Propellant Tanks;
- Propellant Transfer;
- Space Shuttle Payloads;
- Technological Forecasting;
- Launch Vehicles and Space Vehicles