Design and performance analysis of an aeromaneuvering orbital-transfer vehicle concept
Abstract
Systems requirements for design-optimized, lateral-turn performance were determined for reusable, space-based applications and low-earth orbits involving large multiple plane-inclination changes. The aerothermodynamic analysis is the most advanced available for rarefied-hypersonic flow over lifting surfaces at incidence. The effects of leading-edge bluntness, low-density viscous phenomena, and finite-rate flow-field chemistry and surface catalysis are accounted for. The predicted aerothermal heating characteristics are correlated with thermal-control and flight-performance capabilities. The mission payload capacity for delivery, retrieval, and combined operations was determined for round-trip sorties extending to polar orbits. Recommendations are given for future design refinements. The results help to identify technology issues required to develop prototype operational vehicles.
- Publication:
-
Stockholm International Astronautical Federation Congress
- Pub Date:
- October 1985
- Bibcode:
- 1985stoc.iafcV....M
- Keywords:
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- Aeromaneuvering;
- Orbit Transfer Vehicles;
- Orbital Maneuvering Vehicles;
- Spacecraft Design;
- Spacecraft Performance;
- Aerodynamics;
- Aerothermodynamics;
- Hypersonic Flow;
- Temperature Control;
- Trajectory Analysis;
- Launch Vehicles and Space Vehicles