Abstract: Enclosures for facilitating activities in space, and associated systems and methods, are disclosed. A representative system includes a spacecraft having an enclosed interior volume (which can be formed by an inflatable membrane) and one or more unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) carried by the spacecraft and positioned to deploy into the enclosed interior volume. The system can include a remote-control system to control the one or more UAVs from a terrestrial location while the spacecraft is in space. A wireless charging system can provide electrical power to the one or more UAVs. A representative method includes configuring one or more controllers to launch a first spacecraft to a first orbit, launch a second spacecraft to a second orbit, move the first spacecraft to the second orbit, dock the first spacecraft with the second spacecraft, and broadcast an event within an interior volume of the first spacecraft to a terrestrial location.

Abstract: A recoverable rocket stage (2) for propelling a rocket (100) towards space includes a rocket propellant tank assembly (4) having a generally cylindrical outer shape; at least one engine (6), coupled to the rocket propellant tank assembly (4); and a plurality of drag enhancing elements (8), the plurality of drag enhancing elements (8) forming longitudinal extensions of the generally cylindrical outer shape of the rocket propellant tank assembly (4) in their launch positions and being inclinable with respect to the generally cylindrical outer shape of the rocket propellant tank assembly (4) for return of the recoverable rocket stage (2) to earth.

Abstract: A booster system for a launch vehicle includes a plurality of core boosters and a plurality of patchy boosters. The plurality of core boosters and the plurality of patchy boosters are arranged in an inner space of a rocket casing of the launch vehicle, and the plurality of patchy boosters is separatable from the launch vehicle.

Abstract: An aerospace vehicle that permits horizontal launch and subsequent orbital deployment of a second stage. The vehicle can be returned to Earth for subsequent re-use. Both land-based and water-based launch is disclosed. A rocket propulsion engine is located at the center of gravity of the vehicle and rotates to provide vertical and horizontal thrust.

Abstract: A missile including an upper stage and at least one lower stage is provided. The upper stage includes a primary flight computer configured to control a flight of the upper stage along a missile flight path such that, for example, it reaches a predetermined target. The lower stage is mounted to the upper stage and includes a propellant for initially propelling the upper stage along the missile flight path. The lower stage is configured to be jettisoned from the upper stage when the propellant is spent. The lower stage includes a secondary flight computer configured to receive data from the primary flight computer prior to the propellant of the lower stage being spent, and to control a flight of the lower stage along a jettisoned stage flight path of the jettisoned lower stage such that, for example, the jettisoned lower stage glides to a predetermined safe landing zone.

Abstract: A space body has at least two space modules which can be interchangeably connected to one another. At least one closable connection opening is in each case provided on the space modules, via which a passage is produced when the space modules are connected. Furthermore, at least one coupling device connects in each case the space modules to one another. A supply interface is provided for coupling a supply line of the space modules.

Abstract: An aircraft with stealth double wings comprises a main body and stealth double wings. The main body has two main wings respectively having a surface into which a space is formed. The stealth double wings respectively are located in the spaces and include a first and a second rotating shaft, a link rod, a first and a second wing. The link rod has two ends respectively connected with the two rotating shafts. The two rotating shafts respectively have another end connected with the first and second wings. Thereby, when the first wing is moved to cover and enclose the space's opening, the second wing is driven to be located within the space, and when the first wing is moved upwardly away from the space, the second wing is driven to cover and enclose the space's opening, so as to keep the surface intact.

Abstract: A fairing assembly for an aerial vehicle having a tank that forms a body of the vehicle and a wing coupled to the tank is provided. The fining assembly includes a substructure configured to couple with a tank skin of the tank, a thermal protection system coupled to the substructure, and a seal assembly coupled to the substructure, the seal assembly being configured to overlap at least a portion of an edge of the wing.

Abstract: An apparatus includes a body having at least one pitch control system and a mounting system, the mounting system configured to couple to a payload. The apparatus also includes a rocket engine coupled to the body and configured to accelerate the body to a hypersonic speed. The apparatus further includes a control system configured to release the payload while the body moves at the hypersonic speed by commanding the at least one pitch control system to adjust an angle of attack of the body to a negative angle of attack and commanding the mounting system to release the payload while the body is moving at the hypersonic speed and at the negative angle of attack.

Abstract: A detachment system for a delivery aerial drone is disclosed. The detachment system uses a pump to apply a negative pressure to a suction cup for attaching an object to be delivered. The weight of the object is coupled to a mechanical switch, such that setting down the object opens the switch and disconnects the pump. Once the pump is disconnected from its power source, the suction is removed and the object disconnects from the vacuum system. The weight of the object is coupled to a mechanical switch, such that setting down the object opens the switch and disconnects the pump. Thus, the object releases once it is gently placed on a surface such that its weight is removed from the drone.

Abstract: An accessory for holding a scanning instrument, comprising: a sleeve to receive the scanning instrument; a fastener coupled to the sleeve to releasably secure the scanning instrument in the sleeve; a coupling mechanism having a first end and a second end, the first end rotatably coupled to the sleeve such that the sleeve rotates about an axis defined by the first end, the second end rotatably coupled to the first end such that the first end and the sleeve rotate about an axis defined by the second end; and an extension pole coupled to the coupling mechanism at the second end. In one embodiment, the coupling mechanism further comprises a motion inducer configured to induce movement of the sleeve with respect to the coupling mechanism and the extension pole.

Abstract: One example embodiment includes a vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). The VTOL UAV includes a flight control system configured to provide avionic control of the VTOL UAV in a hover mode and in a level-flight mode. The VTOL UAV also includes a body encapsulating an engine and the flight control system. The VTOL UAV further includes a propeller disk coupled to the engine and configured to provide vertical thrust in the hover mode and to provide horizontal thrust for flight during the level-flight mode.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for mitigating the shock front of an aerospace plane flying at hypersonic speeds. The invention employs supercooling driven by the cryogenic power of liquid hydrogen, regenerative evaporation of liquid hydrogen or liquid nitrogen and consequential isothermal compression, to usurp the shock front in totality at Mach 1.

Abstract: A propulsion module configured to launch a craft into space including a recoverable module and a non-recovered part, which is secured to the recoverable module at launch. The recoverable module includes a propulsive system to launch the craft, systems for command and control of the propulsive system, a subsonic flight propulsion motor, airfoils for the subsonic flight, a landing gear, and a braking parachute. The recoverable module is installed in a lower position of the craft when the craft is in the launch position. The non-recovered part includes at least one tank to feed the propulsive system. The recoverable module and the non-recovered part are configured to be separated when the propulsion module reaches a given altitude, and the recoverable module is capable of landing in a controlled fashion after a coasting flight, for example for a return to the launch site.

Abstract: A reusable unmanned single-stage boost-glide suborbital Earth launcher, able to propel large or smaller payloads from Earth surface or from air launch, to a nearly Earth-orbital condition, then glide circum-globally to horizontal airstrip landing at its launch site or similar circum-global recovery site. The payload, using its own propulsion, is thus enabled to complete insertion into low-Earth-orbit (LEO) or destinations beyond LEO. This technically feasible capability, beyond conferring economic benefits of reusability and maneuverability, can be adapted to increase payload by adding drop tanks, or solid or liquid “strap on” boosters, and might eventually be modified and evolved to perform manned aerospace missions, as well as single stage to orbit (SSTO) missions.

Abstract: An air vehicle, such as a missile, for example an interceptor, includes control surfaces and a vectored thrust system, both used for steering the missile. A controller is operatively coupled to both steering mechanisms, and is configured to operate in a low dynamic pressure mode, which uses the vectored thrust system for at least part of the steering, only when the dynamic pressure is low, such as when the missile is at high altitude. At higher dynamic pressure, such as at lower altitude, the controller is configured to operate in a high dynamic pressure mode that uses only the control surfaces for steering. This allows the interceptor to operate at higher altitudes than interceptors that use only control surfaces for steering during flight. During flight for a high altitude interception the missile shifts from the high dynamic pressure mode to the low dynamic pressure mode.

Abstract: Aircraft systems that are optimized for multiple phases of flight are disclosed. In an aspect, an in-line staged aircraft is disclosed comprising a launch vehicle and a flight vehicle which are configured to join together along a common center line and form a single air foil in the joined configuration. The flight vehicle and the launch vehicle are separable in flight. In an aspect, the flight vehicle is an unmanned aerial vehicle configured for high-altitude, long-endurance operations.

Abstract: A reusable unmanned single-stage boost-glide suborbital Earth launcher, able to propel large or smaller payloads from Earth surface or from air launch, to a nearly Earth-orbital condition, then glide circum-globally to horizontal airstrip landing at its launch site or similar circum-global recovery site. The payload, using its own propulsion, is thus enabled to complete insertion into low-Earth-orbit (LEO) or destinations beyond LEO. This technically feasible capability, beyond conferring economic benefits of reusability and maneuverability, can be adapted to increase payload by adding drop tanks, or solid or liquid “strap on” boosters, and might eventually be modified and evolved to perform manned aerospace missions, as well as single stage to orbit (SSTO) missions.

Abstract: A space access system may include a reusable booster limited to sub-orbital operation and having a fuselage. The reusable booster may include a tri-propellant propulsion system which may be configured to shift from a tri-propellant mode of operation to a bi-propellant mode of operation. The tri-propellant propulsion system may include at least one tri-propellant engine and at least one internal propellant tank mounted within the fuselage and being fluidly coupled to the tri-propellant engine. A payload may be mounted with the fuselage. The payload may have an upper stage.

Abstract: The application provides a commercially feasible method of flying repeated orbital missions using a Space Shuttle Program (SSP) Orbital Vehicle.

Abstract: The application provides a Space Shuttle Program (SSP) Orbital vehicle comprising a payload bay comprising a pressure vessel comprising a passenger bay module adapted to provide and maintain habitable conditions for twenty or more passengers during a mission traveling from earth to space and back to earth.

Abstract: A vehicle and method for enabling propulsive flight from suborbital altitudes and velocities directly to far space, or beyond Low Earth Orbit (LEO), preferably without requiring injection into or refueling in LEO. The vehicle is preferably reusable and can withstand re-entry speeds and temperatures higher than those that are typical for LEO vehicles. The vehicle preferably lands horizontally, for example on a runway. The vehicle forms the upper stage of a booster vehicle system which can be launched either from the ground or from a subsonic air platform. The vehicle may optionally be used for LEO missions.

Abstract: A vehicle and method for enabling propulsive flight from suborbital altitudes and velocities directly to far space, or beyond Low Earth Orbit (LEO), preferably without requiring injection into or refueling in LEO. The vehicle is preferably reusable and can withstand re-entry speeds and temperatures higher than those that are typical for LEO vehicles. The vehicle preferably lands horizontally, for example on a runway. The vehicle forms the upper stage of a booster vehicle system which can be launched either from the ground or from a subsonic air platform. The vehicle may optionally be used for LEO missions.

Abstract: A vehicle includes a first sub-vehicle, and a second sub-vehicle which is repeatably moveable between coupled and uncoupled conditions with the first sub-vehicle. The first and second sub-vehicles each include a landing system and propulsion system. The first and second sub-vehicles are in the coupled condition during take-off. The first and second sub-vehicles are separately flyable in the uncoupled condition. Both vehicles are launched horizontally, by a ramp, or vertically, using atmospheric lift to achieve atmospheric flight, orbital, or sub-orbital launch.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a spacecraft structure that comprises a flat-wide body center fuselage, right and left side arch-wings and rocket propulsion power plant compartments, wherein the arch-wing is anchored to the fuselage via a foldable hinge mechanism. The fuselage structure is constructed as a single solid structure body of the spacecraft. A top portion at the rear of fuselage comprises a jet propulsion power plant to provide thrust during take-off from the airport. Both the left and right side arch-wings are anchored to a front and a rear portion of the center fuselage structure. Both the front and rear wing portions enable spacecraft lift and superior maneuverability during flight. The spacecraft is air tight and water tight and includes floatation devices.

Abstract: Systems and methods reduce development, integration and testing time of a spacecraft implemented with one or more reconfigurable processor boards. Mission spacecraft design tools design, configure, simulate and analyze the spacecraft based upon constraints of the mission requirements. The mission spacecraft design tools utilize a database of defined module specifications and firmware components. One or more RPBs are programmed based upon the configuration and interfaced to other end item components defined by the configuration to form the spacecraft.

Abstract: A rocket launch system (1) includes a tubular rocket launcher carriage (2) with electromotive cableway traction drives (26) conveyed beneath a two axis pivot (63) anchored to the earth, elevated into a co-axial transfer tube (124, 143) leading to three primary tether cables (27) whose weight is offset by balloons (164). The carriage is conveyed to a docking station (166) supported into the stratosphere by a pair of secondary cables (184) suspended under an attachment frame (162) for tensioning balloons. The carriage is engaged by a carriage end gripper (196) guided by two secondary and two tertiary cables (186) and lifted by a lower hoist (198) guided by the secondary cables. This lower hoist is supported by an upper hoist (168) suspended from the tensioning balloons attachment frame.

Abstract: A system and method for assessing the risk of conjunction of a rocket body with orbiting and non-orbiting platforms. Two-body orbital dynamics are used to initially determine the kinematic access for a ballistic vehicle. The access may be represented in two ways: as a volume relative to its launcher and also as a geographical footprint relative to a target position that encompasses all possible launcher locations.

Abstract: A non-powered pre-stage (10) with a commensurably large wing area is used to launch a variety of single-stage and multiple-stage space vehicles (20), such as conventional ballistic rockets and prospective spaceplanes, from conventional runways. This method of launch eliminates need in dedicated ground launch structures and/or dedicated long runways. The vehicle to be launched (20) is mated to this non-powered aero-assisted pre-stage (NAP) (10), with their flight directions aligned, using a lock-and-release mechanism (30). The resulting stack takes off like a conventional airplane using the propulsion of the vehicle and aerodynamic lift of the NAP. After the desired trajectory of the vehicle is achieved, the vehicle is separated from the NAP and continues its ascent. The NAP returns back to the surface for reuse or disposal. Thus, a wide variety of conventional airfields can be used for launch of ballistic and aero-assisted flight vehicles.

Abstract: An In Orbit Transportation & Recovery System (IOSTAR™) (10) is disclosed. One preferred embodiment of the present invention comprises a space tug powered by a nuclear reactor (19). The IOSTAR™ includes a collapsible boom (11) connected at one end to a propellant tank (13) which stores fuel for an electric propulsion system (12). This end of the boom (11) is equipped with docking hardware (14) that is able to grasp and hold a satellite (15) and as a means to refill the tank (13). Radiator panels (16) mounted on the boom (11) dissipate heat from the reactor (19). A radiation shield (20) is situated next to the reactor (19) to protect the satellite payload (15) at the far end of the boom (11). The IOSTAR™ (10) will be capable of accomplishing rendezvous and docking maneuvers which will enable it to move spacecraft between a low Earth parking orbit and positions in higher orbits or to other locations in our Solar System.

Abstract: This invention is a launch-to-space, refuel and return system which comprises: a unique circular and straight maglev track and maglev sled spacecraft launcher; a single stage-to-LEO spacecraft (Mother Spacecraft); an orbiting space platform (OSP); a currently utilized Space Shuttle is altered to improve its safety, range, longevity and versatility which serves as a prototype for the Mother Spacecraft design. The Mother Spacecraft is releasably attached to the maglev sled and propulsion for the maglev sled is supplied by magnetic propulsion and on-board rocket propulsion. The collapsible OSP can fit into the Space Shuttle storage bay and is remotely deployed. The OSP is a refueling depot for the Mother Spacecraft, the Space Shuttle, as well as a rendezvous point for various space missions. A single, liquid, non-cryogenic rocket fuel is standardized throughout the entire system which eliminates: all vertical launches; all expendables; all solid rocket propellants.

Abstract: The spacecraft structure is provide, the spacecraft structure for the spacecraft includes, a center fuselage, right wing side fuselage, left wing side fuselage, front wings, and rear wings of Arch-Wings, vertical winglets, and the first levels, the fuselage has a cross-section of substantially flat floor fuselage shape, being is wide enough to provide lifting force. The front wings of the Arch-Wings are disposed horizontally in rear portions of the fuselage the vertical winglets are disposed the top of the rear fuselage the first level disposed fuel tank storage, plurality of landing gear bays, cockpit with control panel, various avionic instruments, cabin doors. The top of the rear fuselage disposed jet-power plants and further more at compartment of the Arch-Wings disposed rocket power plants.

Abstract: The process comprises the steps of: 1) launching the vehicle from the launch site using the first stage booster rocket engine system; 2) separating the at least one upper stage from the first stage booster; 3) terminating operation of the first booster stage rocket engine system; 4) turning the first stage booster back toward the launch site using the aerodynamic flight control system; 5) operating the first stage booster rocket engine system to boost the first stage booster to an altitude sufficient to allow non-powered flight back to the launch side; and 6) landing the first stage booster at the launch site.

Abstract: A lifting body aircraft suitable for atmospheric flight and/or as a reentry vehicle. The craft has a substantially flat upper surface, a lower surface with a doubly convex first section and a flat sloping second section. Chines may be provided between the upper and lower surfaces. The doubly convex first section allows the craft to have its center of gravity forward of its longitudinal center line. The flat sloping second half of the lower surface and the substantially flat upper surface form the aft end of an airfoil. A pair of vertical stabilizers enhance stability and include rudders which, along with a pair of elevons, provide steerage. The craft may glide or it may have an engine or rockets for thrust. The result is an extremely stable lifting body design that is well suited for launch or conventional take off, insertion, orbital operations, reentry, atmospheric flight, and conventional landings.

Abstract: A two-stage space vehicle is provided for achieving low earth orbit that includes a carrier and an orbiter. The carrier has a large airfoil area relative to its dry weight, and the thrust of the rocket engine is controlled such that the carrier achieves a launch altitude and speed for the orbiter without exceeding a wingloading pressure beyond 3,500 Pa., which allows the carrier to be inexpensively constructed. Liquid propellant for the rocket engine is advantageously stored within the relatively large airfoil of the carrier, which is preferably a delta wing. The ratio of airfoil area to dry weight is about 33 m2 per ton, which allows the carrier to descend and land after launching the orbiter with low wingloading on the order of 300 Pa.

Abstract: A vehicle and method for enabling propulsive flight from suborbital altitudes and velocities directly to far space, or beyond Low Earth Orbit (LEO), preferably without requiring injection into or refueling in LEO. The vehicle is preferably reusable and can withstand re-entry speeds and temperatures higher than those that are typical for LEO vehicles. The vehicle preferably lands horizontally, for example on a runway. The vehicle forms the upper stage of a booster vehicle system which can be launched either from the ground or from a subsonic air platform. The vehicle may optionally be used for LEO missions.

Abstract: For an inflatable structure having a flexible outer shell or wall structure having a flexible restraint layer comprising interwoven, load-bearing straps, apparatus for integrating one or more substantially rigid members into the flexible shell. For each rigid member, a corresponding opening is formed through the flexible shell for receiving the rigid member. A plurality of connection devices are mounted on the rigid member for receiving respective ones of the load-bearing straps.

Abstract: A reversible aerospace plane includes an air intake at a first end of the aerospace plane, at least one heat exchanger disposed in the aerospace plane, an engine at a second end of the aerospace plane, wherein the aerospace plane is configured to accelerate in a first direction and configured to glide and land in a second direction, wherein the second direction is substantially in a reverse direction from the first direction.

Abstract: The invention is a process for returning the first stage booster of a launch vehicle having at least one upper stage, the first stage booster having a rocket engine system and aerodynamic flight control system, to the launch site, the process comprising the steps of: 1) launching the vehicle from the launch site using the first stage booster rocket engine system; 2) separating the at least one upper stage from the first stage booster; 3) terminating operation of the first booster stage rocket engine system; 4) turning the first stage booster back toward the launch site using the aerodynamic flight control system; 5) operating the first stage booster rocket engine system to boost the first stage booster to an altitude sufficient to allow non-powered flight back to the launch side; and 6) landing the first stage booster at the launch site.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an aircraft and to a method of getting the aircraft onto station. According to the invention, said aircraft (1) includes propulsion means (2) capable only of enabling said aircraft (1) to move and to orient itself at high altitude, and said aircraft (1) is taken to its station in the high atmosphere, in particular in the stratosphere, by means of an independent transporter (3).

Abstract: A spacecraft system for achieving LEO and beyond includes a lifting body spacecraft, and an acceleration bed unit for accelerating the spacecraft horizontally on a runway to liftoff. The rocket engines of the spacecraft then power the spacecraft into LEO, and the spacecraft glides back to earth, where it is refurbished for reiterative use. A belly assembly of the spacecraft is removable and replaceable. The hydrogen fuel tanks of the spacecraft are modular units, and each include a bladder that expands to fill the tank when empty to prevent explosion hazards.

Abstract: The Hypersonic Orbital Fighter and the methods of flying it are disclosed. The Hypersonic Orbital Fighter is characterized by a winged, modified lifting body shape with the forward ventral section comprising an X-30 type compressive air inlet, throttleable supersonic combustion ramjet array under the center of gravity and half-cone exhaust outlet at the back, fore mounted canards, cockpit/payload area top front and mid section and one or more tailplanes at the top back. Flight profile comprising runway takeoff, high subsonic climb up to 65,000 feet, alternatively full power climb from zero to 65,000 feet, with progressive acceleration from there up to Mach 24 @ required orbital altitude. Able to intercept missiles from early through post-boost phase from chosen orbit or suborbital arc, to intercept aircraft and to interdict surface targets. Winged dynamic soaring capability in reentry followed by powered runway landing.

Abstract: A hypersonic vehicle having in one or more embodiments a control surface that is movable to a deployed position. The control surface is movable in a pivotal manner that establishes a gap between the leading edge of the control surface and the outer surface of the vehicle to provide a flow path. The gap allows a boundary layer along the outer surface of the vehicle to pass through the flow path with out separation from the outer surface, to further improve the effectiveness of the control surface.