Session
Session VII: Launch Systems and Orbital Manuvering
Abstract
In order to increase the number of satellites that can be flown with reduced costs, Multiple Payload Adapters (MPAs) are needed to take advantage of excess payload capability on launch systems. This paper will discuss the development of several MPAs at the Air Force Research Laboratory Space Vehicles Directorate in support of current and future Air Force and Department of Defense requirements. The adapters are being designed using state-of-the-art manufacturing processes, launch vibration isolation, and low-shock separation technology that can accommodate multiple satellite configurations. The MPAs can deploy multiple satellites, in a large range of sizes (15 kg to 1000 kg), depending on the design configuration. The MPAs are being developed to support the Minuteman and Peacekeeper derived space launch vehicles, the Evolved Expendable Launch Vehicle, and the Space Shuttle. The successful development of these adapters will greatly reduce the cost of launching satellites into orbit by allowing for the efficient use of currently unused payload margins. These MPA concepts maximize the opportunity for low-budget satellites to be manifested for launch, and are being proposed to fly as early as 2003. Additionally, work has begun to standardize adapter configurations and connections across multiple launch vehicles to provide reduced flight integration costs and greater opportunities for inclusion of small experiments on larger missions.
Multiple Payload Adapters: Opening the Doors to Space
In order to increase the number of satellites that can be flown with reduced costs, Multiple Payload Adapters (MPAs) are needed to take advantage of excess payload capability on launch systems. This paper will discuss the development of several MPAs at the Air Force Research Laboratory Space Vehicles Directorate in support of current and future Air Force and Department of Defense requirements. The adapters are being designed using state-of-the-art manufacturing processes, launch vibration isolation, and low-shock separation technology that can accommodate multiple satellite configurations. The MPAs can deploy multiple satellites, in a large range of sizes (15 kg to 1000 kg), depending on the design configuration. The MPAs are being developed to support the Minuteman and Peacekeeper derived space launch vehicles, the Evolved Expendable Launch Vehicle, and the Space Shuttle. The successful development of these adapters will greatly reduce the cost of launching satellites into orbit by allowing for the efficient use of currently unused payload margins. These MPA concepts maximize the opportunity for low-budget satellites to be manifested for launch, and are being proposed to fly as early as 2003. Additionally, work has begun to standardize adapter configurations and connections across multiple launch vehicles to provide reduced flight integration costs and greater opportunities for inclusion of small experiments on larger missions.
