Space & Missile Rocket Propulsion
Abstract
This project develops and demonstrates advanced and innovative low-cost rocket turbo-machinery and components, and low-cost space launch propulsion technologies. Additionally, this project develops technologies for the sustainment of strategic systems (including solid rocket motor boosters and missile propulsion, post boost control, and aging and surveillance efforts) and tactical rockets. Characteristics such as environmental acceptability, affordability, reliability, responsiveness, reduced weight, and reduced operation and launch costs are emphasized. Increased life and performance of propulsion systems are key goals. Technology areas investigated include ground demonstrations of compact, lightweight, advanced propulsion technologies, higher efficiency energy conversion systems (derived from an improved understanding of combustion fundamentals), and high-energy propellants. Technological advances in this project could improve the performance of expendable payload capabilities by approximately twenty to fifty percent and reduce launch, operations, and support costs by approximately thirty percent. Responsiveness and operability of propulsion systems will be enhanced for reusable launch systems. Aging and surveillance thrusts for solid rocket motors could reduce lifetime prediction uncertainties for individual motors by fifty percent, enabling motor replacement for cause. The efforts in this project contribute to the sustainment of the rocket propulsion industry, providing rocket propulsion technology for the entire Department of Defense (DoD) and National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). The efforts in this project are part of the Rocket Propulsion 21 (RP21) program. The efforts in this project are reviewed by a DoD level steering committee annually for relevance to DoD missions and achievement of technical goals defined by the RP21 program. In FY 2021, the entirety of Project 634922, Space & Missile Rocket Propulsion, will be transferred from PE 0603216F, Aerospace Propulsion & Power Technology, Project 634922, Space & Missile Rocket Propulsion to PE 0603033F, Next Gen Platform Demo, Project 634922, Space & Missile Rocket Propulsion, as part of the Air Force RDT&E BA 03 PE consolidation in order to realign technology areas to better support the National Defense Strategy, Air Force Future Operating Concept and Air Force Science and Technology Strategy, April 2019. The Project and associated efforts will continue to be executed by the Air Force Research Laboratory Aerospace Systems Technology Directorate located in Edwards Air Force Base, California. This is an administrative realignment for consolidation, and not a new start.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Project
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2021
- Source ID
- 634922_0603216F_3_3600_PB_2021
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