Basis of the SOAR project

Paper number

IAC-14,D6,1,1,x22311

Author

Mr. Laurent Gathier, Dassault Aviation, France

Coauthor

Mrs. Marie-Christine Bernelin, Dassault Aviation, France

Coauthor

Mr. Philippe Coué, Dassault Aviation, France

Coauthor

Mr. Pascal Jaussi, Swiss Space Systems (S3), Switzerland

Coauthor

Mr. Benoît Deper, Swiss Space Systems (S3), Switzerland

Year

2014

Abstract

Swiss Space Systems (S3) – in cooperation with many partners among them particularly the French aircraft manufacturer Dassault Aviation - is shaping the future of commercial space transportation to democratize access to space with the SOAR project.

The SOAR is an unmanned suborbital space plane carried to an altitude of 10 km by a civilian transport aircraft. The SOAR will take care of the next part of the ascent up to an altitude of 80km, the height at which the upper stage will be launched in order to place the satellites into orbit. Once this operation is completed, the SOAR will return back by gliding towards its launch airport, where it will be prepared for the next launch.

This airborne launch system is dedicated to deliver small satellites into Low Earth Orbit (LEO). The SOAR space plane will be built from the best proven technologies. The main components used during the flight will be reusable and S3 intends to develop operating mode coming from aviation such as progressive development, inspection, and maintenance activities. S3 and its partners aim to build a very reliable, economical and environment friendly space transportation system.

Thanks to its innovative approach, the SOAR will be able to serve the clients with excellence at highly competitive costs.

Abstract document

IAC-14,D6,1,1,x22311.brief.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-14,D6,1,1,x22311.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

To get the manuscript, please contact IAF Secretariat.