All 2015 Content
Session
Technical Session II: Launch
Abstract
The first half of the 2010’s has seen a dramatic increase in potential small launch vehicle contenders, defined as rockets capable of carrying at most 1000 kg to Low Earth Orbit. Spurred on by government programs such as FALCON, SALVO, RASCAL, SWORDS, NEXT, and VCLS and the rapid proliferation of CubeSats and nanosatellites, more than 15 different commercial, semi-commercial, and government entities worldwide are now working on new entrants of this class. This paper presents an overview of all of the small satellite launch systems under development today We will compare capabilities, stated mission goals, and cost and funding sources where available. We purposely avoid making any judgements on vehicle maturity as we do not have personal insight into the design and development of many of these new entrants. The nature of this survey limited us to publically available information – whether on the web, social media, traditional media, or published papers. The authors welcome any comments, feedback, or corrections.
Presentation
Small Launch Vehicles – A 2015 State of the Industry Survey
The first half of the 2010’s has seen a dramatic increase in potential small launch vehicle contenders, defined as rockets capable of carrying at most 1000 kg to Low Earth Orbit. Spurred on by government programs such as FALCON, SALVO, RASCAL, SWORDS, NEXT, and VCLS and the rapid proliferation of CubeSats and nanosatellites, more than 15 different commercial, semi-commercial, and government entities worldwide are now working on new entrants of this class. This paper presents an overview of all of the small satellite launch systems under development today We will compare capabilities, stated mission goals, and cost and funding sources where available. We purposely avoid making any judgements on vehicle maturity as we do not have personal insight into the design and development of many of these new entrants. The nature of this survey limited us to publically available information – whether on the web, social media, traditional media, or published papers. The authors welcome any comments, feedback, or corrections.
