Abstract: Small satellites provide an excellent, near-term platform for demonstrating a responsive capability highlighting missions that necessitate quick launch, quick operational capability, with an attendant, very short development schedule. To achieve this rapid...
Abstract: It is becoming more important to the space community that spacecraft be developed in direct support of responsive missions, which implies that spacecraft need to be “built to inventory”, constructed from off-the-shelf components based on varying mission...
Abstract: Responsive Communications missions typically require “persistent communications,” i.e., repeat coverage that lasts for an extended period or the entire day. LEO orbits cannot provide this coverage without a large number of satellites and GEO satellites are...
Abstract: In the Microcosm Responsive Launch Systems model, a key requirement is that the launch vehicle be essentially a commodity, built to inventory, and ready to go whenever needed, much like cruise missiles or rental cars. This, in turn, implies the need for low...
Abstract: The fundamental goal of Aggressive Surveillance is to transform space surveillance from a long-term, strategic role to an immediate, responsive, tactical role by putting the desired on-orbit instrument where you want it, when you want it—anywhere, anytime,...
Abstract: The emerging acceptance of responsive space as a means of allowing space-based assets to be fully functioning elements within the warfighter’s arsenal has brought to light aspects of traditional spacecraft development that will require extensive modification...
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: 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: We have evaluated 5 potential Responsive Orbits with the following conclusions with respect to coverage, responsiveness, payload to orbit for a small launch vehicle, and missions that they would be best suited for: Cobra Orbits provide up to 4 hours of...
Abstract: We define a new class of “rapid round trip” interplanetary missions for which the principal characteristic is a total mission duration that is 1 or more years shorter than the traditional round trip using Hohmann transfers. Round trip missions using Hohmann...
