A new method for utilizing the upper atmosphere to modify earth orbital trajectories through use of a pressure supported drag brake has been previously proposed. Analytical results and initial wind tunnel test data indicate that there is considerable improvement available to the original aerobraking concept. Optimization of the drag brake with respect to size versus structural heating, and the application of more advanced cooling techniques, indicates that reductions in weight and volume of the aerobraking system by 50 percent should be possible. Additional analysis indicates that further improvements might be available through use of a alternate drag control mode which eliminates the need to throttle the vehicle main engine during the aerobraking maneuver.


    Access

    Access via TIB

    Check availability in my library


    Export, share and cite



    Title :

    Optimization of aerobraked orbital transfer vehicles


    Contributors:

    Conference:

    Thermophysics Conference ; 1981 ; Palo Alto, CA


    Publication date :

    1981-06-01


    Type of media :

    Conference paper


    Type of material :

    No indication


    Language :

    English


    Keywords :


    Optimization of aerobraked orbital transfer vehicles

    ANDREWS, D. / CALUORI, V. / BLOETSCHER, F. | AIAA | 1981





    Orbital transfer vehicles - An overview

    Disher, J. H. / Fero, L. K. | NTRS | 1979