Session
Session IX: Launch Systems
Abstract
The United States has a rich history of space lift success, most of which is based on the Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) heritage. For more than 40 years, the Rocket Systems Launch Program (RSLP) has been executing its charter to store and utilize deactivated ICBM assets. We have had hundreds of successful launches, in multiple launch configurations, from nearly two dozen different launch locations. From spaceports to air launches to all across the Pacific Ocean, RSLP has been the small lift vehicle of choice for the Department of Defense (DoD). RSLP currently provides affordable space launch test beds for emerging space technologies. We can bridge the gap to the next generation of launch vehicles the community is working towards in the coming decades. Our proven assets and responsive abilities eliminate many of the variables involved in putting small satellites into orbit, which allow space researchers to better focus their resources over the coming years. Research and development efforts should continue, and until future systems come to fruition, the community should look for ways of using assets that are currently available, cost effective, and require no development. This will allow developmental funds to be applied to whatever concept is going to be our next access to space.
Presentation Slides
ICBM Derived Small Lift Vehicles: Past, Present, and Future
The United States has a rich history of space lift success, most of which is based on the Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) heritage. For more than 40 years, the Rocket Systems Launch Program (RSLP) has been executing its charter to store and utilize deactivated ICBM assets. We have had hundreds of successful launches, in multiple launch configurations, from nearly two dozen different launch locations. From spaceports to air launches to all across the Pacific Ocean, RSLP has been the small lift vehicle of choice for the Department of Defense (DoD). RSLP currently provides affordable space launch test beds for emerging space technologies. We can bridge the gap to the next generation of launch vehicles the community is working towards in the coming decades. Our proven assets and responsive abilities eliminate many of the variables involved in putting small satellites into orbit, which allow space researchers to better focus their resources over the coming years. Research and development efforts should continue, and until future systems come to fruition, the community should look for ways of using assets that are currently available, cost effective, and require no development. This will allow developmental funds to be applied to whatever concept is going to be our next access to space.
