Crewed on-orbit, returnable, and reusable space vehicle
US6666409B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 26, 2003 |
| Grant date | Dec 23, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 26, 2023 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB64G1/641
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A returnable and reusable space vehicle including a main body separate from and releasably mounted to a booster rocket assembly. A crew compartment module is provided that is separate from and releasably mounted to the main body. A propellant system is operably coupled to the crew compartment module so as to propel the crew compartment module from the main body during an emergency procedure. An orientation control system is coupled to the propellant system such that the orientation control system maintains the crew compartment module in a predetermined attitude during the emergency procedure. A pair of aerodynamic lifting wings extend from the main body to provide aerodynamic lift the the main body to permit the main body to return from the orbit and land.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.