System Technology Analysis of Aeroassisted Orbital Transfer Vehicles:Moderate Lift/Drag (0.75-1.5),Volume 1B,Part 1,Study Results.

摘要

Significant performance benefits can be realized via aerodynamic breaking and/or aerodynamic maneuvering on return from higher altitude orbits to low Earth orbit. This approach substantially reduces the mission propellant requirements by using the aerodynamic drag, D, to brake the vehicle to near circular velocity and the aerodynamic lift, L, to null out accumulated errors as well as change the orbital inclination to that required for rendezous with the Space Shuttle Orbiter. A study was completed where broad concept evaluations were performed and the technology requirements and sensitivities for aeroassisted Orbital Transfer Vehicles (AOTVs) over a range of vehicle hypersonic L/D from 0.75 to 1.5 were systematically identified and assessed. The AOTV is capable of evolving from an initial delivery only system to one eventually capable of supporting manned roundtrip missions to geosynchronous orbit. Concept screenings were conducted on numerous configurations spanning the L/D = 0.75 to 1.5 range, and several with attractive features were identified. Initial payload capability was evaluated for a baseline of delivery to GEO, six hour polar, and Molniya orbits with return and recovery of the AOTV at LEO. Evolutionary payload requirements that were assessed include a GEO servicing mission and a manned GEO mission.