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The Spacecab Demonstrator project

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  04 July 2016

D. M. Ashford
D. M. Ashford*
Affiliation:
Bristol Spaceplanes Limited Bristol, UK
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Abstract

This paper describes a concept study of the Spacecab Demonstrator project, which is a small two seat aeroplane capable of routine “zoom-climbs” to space altitude. It is powered by a jet engine and a rocket motor. It would be the first sub-orbital spaceplane since the X-15 of thirty years ago. The study shows that Spacecab Demonstrator should be a simple robust development using existing technology. It would be used as a spaceplane technology testbed, as a reusable sounding rocket for space research and for specialised commercial applications. More importantly, it would serve as a pathfinder for the Spacecab orbital spaceplane, which is designed to be the first fully reusable launch vehicle. Spacecab uses existing engines and proven materials and is designed with provision for certification to airliner standards. Enlarged and mature developments of Spacecab would reduce the cost of sending people into space by three orders of magnitude compared with the cost today, and this could probably be achieved in about 15 years.

Type
Research Article
Information
The Aeronautical Journal , Volume 99 , Issue 986 , July 1995 , pp. 226 - 237
Copyright
Copyright © Royal Aeronautical Society 1995 

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