Evaluation of European Reusable VTVL Booster Stages

摘要

Reusability of launch systems has the potential to strongly impact the launch service market if sufficient reliability and low refurbishment costs can be achieved. This study focuses on the vertical takeoff and vertical landing (VTVL) method as currently used by SpaceX. The goal of this study is to determine the impact of this method on a technical, operational and economic level and to identify its potential for a future European reusable launch system. Therefore, different propellant combinations, stagings and engine cycles were considered for a launch system with a reusable VTVL booster stage and a payload capability of 7 tons to GTO (geostationary transfer orbit). Several concepts were subjected to a preliminary design phase and are presented in this paper. The most promising concept will be selected to enter a second, more detailed design phase to obtain a feasible reusable VTVL launcher with the potential to become a future European launch vehicle.