Aeronautics and astronautics – Spacecraft – Spacecraft formation – orbit – or interplanetary path
Patent
1989-05-09
1993-06-08
Barefoot, Galen
Aeronautics and astronautics
Spacecraft
Spacecraft formation, orbit, or interplanetary path
244172, 244 2, B64G 114
Patent
active
052171876
ABSTRACT:
A multi-use launch system comprises a plurality of different modules releasably securable together into a plurality of different possible launch configurations. The modules include an at least partially expendable, unmanned first stage unit which is capable of single-stage-to-orbit operations on its own carrying internal or external payloads, or as part of a multi-stage-to-orbit system for higher payload capacity launches. The first stage unit is demountably securable to other first stage units, unpowered cargo-carrying units, and/or manned space vehicles. The first stage unit may be completely expendable after launch.
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