초록 ▼

A reusable first stage (100) includes a booster engine system (102) for providing thrust during launch, a structural assembly (108), canards (118), jet engines (122), wings (124), elevons (126) and retractable landing gear (130). After separation, the jet engines (122) and aerodynamic control surfac

A reusable first stage (100) includes a booster engine system (102) for providing thrust during launch, a structural assembly (108), canards (118), jet engines (122), wings (124), elevons (126) and retractable landing gear (130). After separation, the jet engines (122) and aerodynamic control surfaces are used to return the first stage to a landing strip. The booster system (102) includes a structurally stable outer skin system such as an isogrid structure. The first stage (100) is thereby adapted for controlled descent and recovery with minimal structural enhancement or added mass.

대표청구항 ▼

1. A reusable apparatus for thrusting a space vehicle in an air environment towards orbit, comprising:a rocket stage system for providing a thrust to said space vehicle, said rocket stage system including a propellant tank having reinforcement members associated with an outer skin assembly thereof f

1. A reusable apparatus for thrusting a space vehicle in an air environment towards orbit, comprising:a rocket stage system for providing a thrust to said space vehicle, said rocket stage system including a propellant tank having reinforcement members associated with an outer skin assembly thereof for supporting aerodynamic loads; and an aerodynamic control system for allowing controlled aerodynamic descent of said stage system, said aerodynamic control system including a plurality of control surfaces, said control surfaces being deployable for guidance of said rocket stage system during said controlled aerodynamic descent, wherein said control system comprises wings and a pair of canards.