Analysis of the Acquisition Costs of Uniquely-Built Spacecraft versus Multi-Mission Modular Spacecraft Surrogates for the Military Space Program of the 1970's.
Abstract
The purpose of the analysis was to determine and compare the costs of certain uniquely-built spacecraft of the 1970's with surrogate programs using the Multimission Modular Spacecraft. Using the Unmanned Spacecraft Cost Model, costs were developed for the unique satellites. After the feasibility of using the cost model was determined, the costs of the MMS were estimated from the cost model. Mission unique item costs such as, solar arrays, batteries, and communications equipment were also determined. The surrogate MMS program costs were simulated varying the quantity of modules built and the slope of the learning curve in building the modules. These costs compared with the estimated costs of the uniquely-built satellites, both aggregate and program, enabled a cost comparison of the 1970's military space program had the U.S. used the MMS exclusively. The analysis concludes with the determination that the MMS is a highly cost effective method of decreasing the cost of utilizing space when it is employed within its design criteria. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 1983
- Accession Number
- ADA141120
Entities
People
- L. M. Cole
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology