Effect on Structures of Rapidly Changing Environmental Conditions - Launch to Orbit to Entry

ABSTRACT

The influence of the integrated, rapidly changing environmental conditions, from launch through orbit to entry and recovery, on the structure and thermal protection systems of advanced space vehicle systems is defined. Two vehicle systems are considered: a space exploration system employing a vertical takeoff expendable launch vehicle, ballistic entry vehicle, and vertical landing; and an orbital operations system employing reusable stages with horizontal takeoff and landing capability. Data are presented on the mission requirements, design criteria, structural characteristics, and pacing technology problems for each system.