AirLaunch’s QuickReach™ Small Launch Vehicle: Development Status of Phase 2B
- Paper number
IAC-06-D2.1.09
- Author
Mrs. Debra Facktor Lepore, AirLaunch LLC, United States
- Year
2006
- Abstract
AirLaunch LLC is developing the QuickReach™ booster under the DARPA/U.S. Air Force Falcon small launch vehicle program. Valued at 17.8 million for a one year effort, AirLaunch′ s Falcon Phase 2 B contract activity enables the company and its team of subcontractors to continue developing the QuickReach™ small satellite booster. The Falcon program goal is to develop a vehicle that can launch 1,000 pounds to low earth orbit for less than 5 million with only 24 hours notice. AirLaunch’s design achieves responsiveness by carrying its QuickReach™ booster to altitude inside the cargo bay of an unmodified C-17A or other large cargo aircraft.
In 2005, Team AirLaunch completed Phase 2A on time and on budget with significant hardware and testing, including four engine test firings, a stage separation test, ground drop test, and a C-17 drop test in September 2005. The goal is to complete Phase 2B with a successful Critical Design Review this fall, receive approval to continue into Phase 2C for a demonstration launch, and work with DARPA and the Air Force toward a first flight in 2008.
This paper will discuss the progress to date of AirLaunch and potential flight opportunities on the QuickReach™ vehicle
- Abstract document
- Manuscript document
IAC-06-D2.1.09.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).
To get the manuscript, please contact IAF Secretariat.