Reusable upper stage rocket with aerospike engine
US12421921B2 · kind B2 · utility
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24References
24Claims
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Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 5, 2024 |
| Grant date | Sep 23, 2025 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 5, 2044 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB64G1/402
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Systems and methods for a fully reusable upper stage for a multi-stage launch vehicle are provided. The reusable upper stage uses an aerospike engine for main propulsion and for vertical landing. A heat shield can include a plurality of scarfed nozzles embedded radially around a semi-spherical surface of the heat shield, wherein inboard surfaces of the plurality of scarfed nozzles collectively define an aerospike contour. The heat shield can be actively cooled to dissipate heat encountered during reentry of the upper stage.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.