Overview of GX Launch Services by GALEX
- Paper number
IAC-05-D2.2.01
- Author
Mr. Koji Sato, Galaxy Express Corporation, Japan
- Year
2005
- Abstract
Galaxy Express Corporation (GALEX) was established in March 2003 as a private company to develop a new medium size launch vehicle on commercial basis, called as GX Launch Vehicle, and to provide commercial launch services by using this launch vehicle after the development is completed. The shareholders of GALEX originally consisted of seven Japanese companies related to space business. Later more Japanese companies and an US company, Lockheed Martin, joined as shareholders which can reinforce GX launch services business. The total development cost is basically shared between GALEX (1/3) and Japanese Government’s two (2) incorporated administrative agencies (total 2/3). However GALEX is fully responsible for the total development. GALEX is now devoted to development of GX launch vehicle with its planned maiden test flight early in year 2007 or so and is also preparing for providing commercial launch services after two (2) test flights by preparing users manual and establishing necessary infrastructure to support commercial launches from Japan. GX launch vehicle has a unique feature in development. As many flight proven technology and hardware are used to realize commercial entry with reliable vehicle in a short time while consideration is given for using new but promising technology for future expansion of its application other than GX launch vehicle; LOX/LNG (Liquid Natural Gas) propulsion system in the upper stage. It is GALEX’s plan to provide commercial launch services for small/medium class payloads into LEO and SSO as a starting point, with small GTO missions as a future business expansion. It is our goal to offer high-reliability launch services with competitive values through the world. The launch operation will be preformed by using the Tanegashima Space Center(TNSC) which is owned and operated by the Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) in which JAXA is to provide launch operation including range safety operation. Some more details will be given in the presentation. It is GALEX’s view that small/medium satellite market is in a smaller size, but can offer stable business considering the nature of LEO/SSO missions which need more frequent replacement, and less competitiveness, compared with large GEO market. It is our hope to offer best launch services to small/medium satellite customers in the world soon.
- Abstract document
- Manuscript document
IAC-05-D2.2.01.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).
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