Session
Technical Session IV: From Earth to Orbit
Abstract
Generation Orbit Launch Services, Inc. (GO) is currently developing GOLauncher 2, a dedicated nanosatellite launch system capable of providing responsive and affordable space transportation services to the emerging marketplace of government, commercial, and academic nanosatellite developers. GOLauncher 2 is designed around a novel air-launch approach, utilizing an existing business jet carrier aircraft and a set of expendable rocket stages to place up to 100 pounds of payload into Low Earth Orbit. As a systems integrator, GO has built a best-in-class team of partners and suppliers to provide major components of the system including aircraft modifications, propulsion, and avionics, all while leveraging ongoing technology development efforts to reduce development costs and development schedules. Additionally, GO has reached an agreement with Cecil Spaceport in Jacksonville, FL for initial operations of GOLauncher 2 under an FAA launch license. System development is currently on schedule to meet demand for government and commercial launch services starting in 2016. NASA has booked the first flight of GOLauncher 2 under the NASA Launch Services Enabling eXploration and Technology (NEXT) initiative for launch of three 3U CubeSats in late 2016. This work provides an overview of the GOLauncher 2 system, including key features, performance parameters, and concept of operations. Specific focus is also paid to discussion of payload-centric system elements including payload requirements, mechanical and electrical interfaces, launch vehicle integration, launch environments, and on-orbit operations capabilities.
GOLauncher 2: Fast, Flexible, and Dedicated Space Transportation for Nanosatellites
Generation Orbit Launch Services, Inc. (GO) is currently developing GOLauncher 2, a dedicated nanosatellite launch system capable of providing responsive and affordable space transportation services to the emerging marketplace of government, commercial, and academic nanosatellite developers. GOLauncher 2 is designed around a novel air-launch approach, utilizing an existing business jet carrier aircraft and a set of expendable rocket stages to place up to 100 pounds of payload into Low Earth Orbit. As a systems integrator, GO has built a best-in-class team of partners and suppliers to provide major components of the system including aircraft modifications, propulsion, and avionics, all while leveraging ongoing technology development efforts to reduce development costs and development schedules. Additionally, GO has reached an agreement with Cecil Spaceport in Jacksonville, FL for initial operations of GOLauncher 2 under an FAA launch license. System development is currently on schedule to meet demand for government and commercial launch services starting in 2016. NASA has booked the first flight of GOLauncher 2 under the NASA Launch Services Enabling eXploration and Technology (NEXT) initiative for launch of three 3U CubeSats in late 2016. This work provides an overview of the GOLauncher 2 system, including key features, performance parameters, and concept of operations. Specific focus is also paid to discussion of payload-centric system elements including payload requirements, mechanical and electrical interfaces, launch vehicle integration, launch environments, and on-orbit operations capabilities.
