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The Spacecab Demonstratorproject

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  04 July 2016

D. M. Ashford
D. M. Ashford*
Affiliation:
Bristol Spaceplanes Limited Bristol, UK
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Abstract

This paper describes a concept study of the SpacecabDemonstrator project, which is a small two seataeroplane capable of routine “zoom-climbs” to spacealtitude. It is powered by a jet engine and a rocketmotor. It would be the first sub-orbital spaceplanesince the X-15 of thirty years ago. The study showsthat Spacecab Demonstrator should be a simple robustdevelopment using existing technology. It would beused as a spaceplane technology testbed, as areusable sounding rocket for space research and forspecialised commercial applications. Moreimportantly, it would serve as a pathfinder for theSpacecab orbital spaceplane, which is designed to bethe first fully reusable launch vehicle. Spacecabuses existing engines and proven materials and isdesigned with provision for certification toairliner standards. Enlarged and mature developmentsof Spacecab would reduce the cost of sending peopleinto space by three orders of magnitude comparedwith the cost today, and this could probably beachieved in about 15 years.

Information

Type
Research Article
Information
The Aeronautical Journal , Volume 99 , Issue 986 , July 1995 , pp. 226 - 237
Copyright
Copyright © Royal Aeronautical Society 1995 

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