Abstract: A space launch vehicle having two or more specified benign failure modes and associated payload performances capable of launching two or more payloads to one or more mission orbits. When the vehicle benign failure mode yielding the highest vehicle performance occurs all of the payloads are placed in orbit successfully. When a lower performance benign failure mode occurs one or more of the payloads is jettisoned early in the launch trajectory enabling the other payload(s) to be placed in mission orbit(s) successfully. Thus, the maximum specified performance capability of the vehicle is achieved for most of its launches and that performance is reduced only when a specified benign failure occurs that leads to jettisoning a payload(s) to enable the remaining payload(s) to be placed in mission orbit(s) successfully.

Abstract: A passive zero or microgravity leg restraint (10) includes a central support post (17) with a top (12) and a bottom (20). Extending from the central support post (17) and calf pad tab (15), to which calf pad (16) is attached, and foot pad tab (19), to which foot pad (18) is attached. Also extending from central support post (17) are knee pads (13 and 14). When the restraint is in use the user's legs are forced between pads (13, 14, 16 and 18) by a user imposed scissors action of the legs. The user's body is then supported in a zero or microgravity neutral body posture by the leg restraint. Calf pad (16) has semi-rigid elastic padding material covering structural stiffener (26). Foot pad (18) has padding material (25) and structural stiffener (27). Knee pads (13 and 14) have structural tube stiffener (28) at their core.

Abstract: A hot air balloon with an adjustable deflation port at its upper end and a maneuvering port on a side region which allows both ports to be selectively opened and closed on the ground and during flight such that positive control of such ports exist by the operator of the balloon in the basket.