Earth to orbit transportation system
US11649070B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 4, 2021 |
| Grant date | May 16, 2023 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 8, 2041 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF17C2270/0194
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Various embodiments of space launch vehicle systems and associated methods of manufacture and use are disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the systems include a reusable, horizontal takeoff/horizontal landing (HTHL), ground-assisted single-stage-to-orbit (SSTO) spaceplane that is capable of providing frequent deliveries of people and/or cargo to Low Earth Orbit (LEO). In some embodiments, the spaceplane can takeoff with the aid of a rocket-powered sled that, in addition to providing additional thrust for takeoff, can also provide propellant for the spaceplane engines during the takeoff run so that the spaceplane launches with full propellant tanks.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.