This article is reproduced with the permission of SPACENEWS November 2, 2015 Making Launch Affordable –Debra Werner SAN FRANCISCO — Microcosm President James Wertz, a professor and author of space reference tomes, points to history to explain the importance of...
Abstract: The Scorpius low-cost launch vehicle architecture greatly reduces the cost of space access due to its emphasis on designing specifically for low total life cycle cost. Due to its simplicity, a pressure-fed launch vehicle is low in cost compared with pump-fed...
Abstract: Microcosm and Sierra Engineering have been developing a series of low-cost pressure fed LOX/kerosene engines to power the Scorpius® family of launch vehicles. This paper focuses on the design, fabrication and testing of a 20K lbf O-F-O triplet injector with...
Abstract: “Responsive space” has substantial benefit in terms of both flexibility to meet real-time needs and assured space access. However, creating responsive space requires a new paradigm for space launch systems, launch operations, and the space systems...
Abstract: This paper illustrates the cost advantage of a space transportation system that uses pressure-fed technology and describes pertinent aspects of scaling the propulsion technology for light-lift through medium- and heavy-lift vehicles. Microcosm has used this...
