OrbitAlis microsatellites launch
Development of a micro-space reusable system with aerodynamic launch
Our development will enable more cost-effective delivery of payloads to low Earth orbit by reducing losses during atmospheric ascent and simplifying the design of the STORMVÖGEL rocket plane.
Переваги
Rockets, that launch vertically from the Earth's surface, aim to pass through the atmosphere and reach orbital speed as quickly as possible in order to minimize gravity losses. This is because the required thrust must significantly exceed the rocket’s mass to overcome gravity and accelerate the launch vehicle. These rockets penetrate the atmosphere at supersonic speeds, leading to surface heating and additional fuel consumption.
In our project, to reduce gravity losses, aerodynamic wings are used to counteract gravity instead of relying solely on propulsion. The ascent to the stratosphere using wings occurs at subsonic speeds and with high aerodynamic efficiency, which minimizes aerodynamic losses.
Концепція
The rocket plane takes off from a regular airfield using a tow line behind an aerotow aircraft. It ascends together with the tow aircraft up to an altitude of 9 km, after which it detaches. The rocket plane then activates its propulsion system and continues climbing to an altitude of 33 km, relying on its wings and partial engine thrust.
Next, the rocket plane increases its pitch angle, engages full engine power, and transitions into a ballistic flight, accelerating up to a speed of 6.6 km/s. At an altitude of 80 km, the rocket plane completes its acceleration and releases the second, orbital stage with a payload of 100–150 kg, which delivers the satellite to the required orbit.
The rocket plane then aerodynamically brakes in the stratosphere down to subsonic speeds, descends, and lands like a conventional aircraft at the designated airfield.
Innovative Propulsion System for STORMVÖGEL
We use pressure-fed liquid-propellant engines (LREs) with fuel components consisting of hydrogen peroxide (oxidizer) and Acetam 50/50 (an innovative fuel). The propellants are non-cryogenic and non-toxic.
To extend engine life, we use ceramic inserts in the critical throat section.
The propulsion system includes four such engines.
Acetam 50/50 is a blended fuel composed of ammonia and acetylene in a 50/50 ratio, which increases the specific impulse of the engine.
