Feasibility Study For Multiply Reusable Space Launch System

TL;DR

This paper explores a fully reusable multi-stage orbital launch system combining Midpoint Delivery and Midpoint to Orbit stages, aiming to reduce launch costs to $300-$400 per kg.

Contribution

It introduces a novel multi-stage reusable launch architecture with detailed concepts for stage reusability and cost reduction.

Findings

Stages can be reused daily for many years.

Cost per kg to LEO estimated at $300-$400.

All engines are delivered to LEO and reused via reentry vehicles.

Abstract

A novel concept of orbital launch system in which all stages are reusable is presented. The first two stages called Midpoint Delivery System (MPDS) deliver the next stages to a midpoint. A midpoint is defined by an altitude of 100 $km$ to 120 $km$ and horizontal velocity of 2.8 $km/s$ to 3.2 $km/s$. MPDS stages decelerate in the atmosphere and perform vertical landing on barges. These stages can be reused daily for many years. The payload is delivered from the midpoint to a 400 $km$ Low Earth Orbit by one or two stage rocket called Midpoint to Orbit Delivery System (MPTO). All of MPTO engines are delivered to LEO. These engines do not return to Earth themselves. They are returned to Earth in packs of 50 to 100 by a Reentry Vehicle. Overall, the fully and multiply reusable launch system should deliver payload to LEO for \$300 to \$400 per $kg$