Patents by Inventor Thomas D. Megna

Thomas D. Megna has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Fly back booster
    Patent number: 6450452
    Abstract: A reusable first stage (100) includes a booster engine system (102) for providing thrust during launch, a structural assembly (108), canards (118), jet engines (122), wings (124), elevons (126) and retractable landing gear (130). After separation, the jet engines (122) and aerodynamic control surfaces are used to return the first stage to a landing strip. The booster system (102) includes a structurally stable outer skin system such as an isogrid structure. The first stage (100) is thereby adapted for controlled descent and recovery with minimal structural enhancement or added mass.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2002
    Assignee: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventors: Robert B. Spencer, Thomas D. Megna, James R. Greenwood, Daniel J. Laintz