A new investigation on next generation engines for fully Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV) is under way in Japan. The RLV requires not only high specific impulse of the propulsion but also significant improvements in thrust-to weight ratio at liftoff, life cycle capability and operability. This paper will describe the conceptual outline on a new engine research program for RLV based on the main component characteristics of the LE-7A engine. This engine will be driven with tap off cycle or gas generator cycle, not staged combustion, in order to increase sea level thrust-to-weight ratio. Extendible nozzle will be also installed to enhance the vacuum specific impulse. In addition, this paper will present a new concept of Liquefied Air Cycle Engine (LACE) to boost air breathing spaceplane. The LACE engine has significantly higher specific impulse and sea level thrust-to weight ratio than rocket engine.


    Access

    Check access

    Check availability in my library

    Order at Subito €


    Export, share and cite



    Title :

    Investigation of next generation engine for reusable launch vehicle


    Contributors:

    Conference:

    Space technology and applications international forum - 1998 ; 1998 ; Albuquerque,New Mexico (USA)


    Published in:

    AIP Conference Proceedings ; 420 , 1 ; 1066-1070


    Publication date :

    1998-01-15


    Size :

    5 pages





    Type of media :

    Conference paper


    Type of material :

    Electronic Resource


    Language :

    English



    Investigation of Next Generation Engines for Reusable Launch Vehicle

    Konno, A. / Kishimoto, K. / Atsumi, M. et al. | British Library Conference Proceedings | 1998





    Reusable Launch Vehicle Engine Systems Operations Analysis

    Komar, D. R. / Christenson, R. L. / American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics | British Library Conference Proceedings | 1996