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VentureStar(trademark) Reaping the Benefits of the X-33 ProgramMajor X-33 flight hardware has been delivered, and assembly of the vehicle is well underway in anticipation of its flight test program commencing in the summer of 1999. Attention has now turned to the operational VentureStar(trademark), the first single-stage-to-orbit (SSTO) reusable launch vehicle. Activities are grouped under two broad categories: (1) vehicle development and (2) market/business planning, each of which is discussed. The mission concept is presented for direct payload delivery to the International Space Station and to low Earth orbit, as well as payload delivery with an upper stage to Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO) and other high energy orbits. System requirements include flight segment and ground segment. Vehicle system sizing and design status is provided including the application of X-33 traceability and lessons learned. Technology applications to the VentureStar(trademark) are described including the structure, propellant tanks, thermal protection system, aerodynamics, subsystems, payload bay and propulsion. Developing a market driven low cost launch services system for the 21 st Century requires traditional and non-traditional ways of being able to forecast the evolution of the potential market. The challenge is balancing both the technical and financial assumptions of the market. This involves the need to provide a capability to meet market segments that in some cases are very speculative, while at the same time providing the financial community with a credible revenue stream.
Document ID
19990009081
Acquisition Source
Marshall Space Flight Center
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Sumrall, J. (NASA Headquarters Washington, DC United States)
Lane, C. (Lockheed Martin Corp. Palmdale, CA United States)
Date Acquired
September 6, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1998
Subject Category
Spacecraft Design, Testing And Performance
Report/Patent Number
IAF-98-V.3.03
Meeting Information
Meeting: International Astronautical Congress
Location: Melbourne
Country: Australia
Start Date: September 28, 1998
End Date: October 2, 1998
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.

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