Concept Definition of Small Suborbital Reusable Launch Vehicle
- Paper number
IAC-07-D2.I.06
- Author
Dr. Fei Wang, China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology, China
- Year
2007
- Abstract
Suborbital Reusable Launch Vehicle (SRLV) is a rocket plane, the term “SRLV” refers to a launch system that can be re-used for multiple launches. SRLVs could offer a number of advantages operationally over Expendable Launch Vehicles (ELVs). These could include greater reliability and safety, quick turnaround time, more versatile performance, high flight rate capability, and lower operating cost. The technical aspects of SRLV are reviewed first in this report. The development trend of SRLV is also analysized and summarized. The Concept definition of small Suborbital RLV is obtained at last. The Small SRLV serves as a first stage carrying typically the upper stages on its back. After releasing them, the SRLV would fly back to the launch base. The small SRLV features include: vertical tack off and wheeled landing; thrusters will not have toxic propellants.
- Abstract document