SSTO applications based on super high energy propulsion systems
Abstract
The technical feasibility of super-high-energy propulsion systems based on monatomic hydrogen propellant for application in reusable SSTO vehicles is discussed. Possible technical solutions concerning storage of the solid propellant and propulsion systems are presented. Due to noise limitations and power requirements, two kinds of propulsion systems are considered: with and without air augmentation, based on the injector principle. A parametric system definition served as basis for a computer simulation to calculate the reference launchers. The computed results indicated the uncompetitiveness of launching the systems in service due to the very high structural tank masses required to guarantee storage temperature conditions of about 0.1 K, although high specific impulses are realizable. Future operations of monatomic hydrogen propulsion systems, especially those using air augmentation, are conceivable if technological improvements take place as a result of considerable research efforts in the direction of structural mass savings.
- Publication:
-
Malaga International Astronautical Federation Congress
- Pub Date:
- October 1989
- Bibcode:
- 1989mala.iafcR....T
- Keywords:
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- Propulsion System Configurations;
- Reusable Spacecraft;
- Single Stage To Orbit Vehicles;
- Spacecraft Design;
- Spacecraft Propulsion;
- Computerized Simulation;
- Cryogenic Rocket Propellants;
- Hydrogen Atoms;
- Rocket Engine Design;
- Vertical Takeoff;
- Launch Vehicles and Space Vehicles