Aeronautics and astronautics – Spacecraft – Reusable or returnable
Reexamination Certificate
2007-03-27
2007-03-27
Collins, Timothy D. (Department: 3643)
Aeronautics and astronautics
Spacecraft
Reusable or returnable
Reexamination Certificate
active
10515777
ABSTRACT:
A rocket-powered spacecraft having a wing which has hinged aft portions which can be elevated about a hinge line. Tail booms extend rearwardly from the outer ends of the aft wing portions, and rudders are mounted at the aft ends of the booms. Each tail boom supports a horizontal tail with an elevon at its trailing edge. In normal flight, the wing aft portions are not elevated, and the wing has a normal airfoil shape. During atmosphere reentry, the wing aft portions are steeply elevated to provide a stable high-drag altitude for the spaceship for speed reduction at low thermal and structural loading. After reentry, the aft wing is returned to an unelevated position which enables gliding flight to a horizontal-runway landing.
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Abstract of Japanese Patent No. JP 403167098 A, Published Jul. 18, 1991, Inventor Horikawa, Makoto.
Christie Parker & Hale LLP
Collins Timothy D.
Mojave Aerospace Ventures, LLC
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