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: Download Taylor, C., A. Shao, N. Sarzi-Amade, R. Van Allen, and J. Wertz. Microcosm Inc. ISSC 2013, Pasadena, CA, June 20–21, 2013.
Abstract: The ELVIS (Expendable Launch Vehicle with Integrated Spacecraft) concept involves: (1) dropping off the upper stage of the launch vehicle as low as possible, with integral low-thrust propulsion taking the spacecraft to its final orbital destination; (2)...
Abstract: The Scorpius® vehicle family extends from one and two stage sub-orbital vehicles for target and science applications to small, medium and heavy lift orbital vehicles. These new liquid fueled vehicles have LEO and GTO capabilities. Microcosm, Inc. and...
Abstract: It is generally assumed by the community that reusable launch vehicles will dramatically reduce launch costs because you don’t “throw away the vehicle” every time it is used. However, this is usually taken as an element of faith, without any substantive...