Airborne Launch Assist Space Access (ALASA)
Abstract
The ALASA program seeks to make access to space more affordable by reducing the cost per launch to under one million dollars per flight for 100 lb payloads to low earth orbit. In addition, the program seeks to improve the responsiveness of space access by reducing the interval from call-up to launch to a single day. This enables rapid delivery of spacecraft in response to evolving situations, such as a humanitarian crisis or unexpected conflict, and is accomplished by developing rapid mission planning tools which streamline existing range processes, and automated flight safety systems which reduce reliance on expensive and fragile range infrastructure. These tools enable the program's third goal: to escape the limitations of fixed launch sites by achieving a greater flexibility in the direction and location of launch. Challenges include, but are not limited to: development of a high-energy, low cost monopropellant, development of alternatives to current range processes, and achieving a cost per flight of one million dollars, including range support costs, to deploy satellites on the order of one hundred pounds. The anticipated transition partners are the Air Force and the emerging commercial space launch industry.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Accomplishment
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2017
- Source ID
- d746ad34f96a58e1dbfaa6f920f29c61