PROJECT SUMMARY: Quicksat Military Space Plane (MSP)

The United States military has identified responsive space access as a desirable capability to provide security and defense for the nation. An option for enabling quick, on-demand space access involves reusable transportation elements. Specifically, elements that incorporate air-breathing propulsion systems to provide multi-role mission capabilities, loiter capability, flyout, and abort options. These capabilities are not generally possible on systems that only utilize rocket propulsion systems. In support of this vision, the Air Force Research Lab has initiated concept development studies in the area of combined-cycle propulsion systems applied to reusable launch vehicles. The first product from this study has resulted in the design of a space operations vehicle (SOV) referred to as the Quicksat. This SOV is the first element of a two-stage launch vehicle concept that uses combined-cycle airbreathing propulsion. The nominal system launches and lands horizontally in addition to using non-cryogenic propellants for improved operability in support of on-demand and responsive launch scenarios. Additionally, the vehicle is capable of supporting at least three unique missions: a) space maneuvering vehicle (SMV) delivery to orbit, b) a global strike mission, and c) cargo delivery to LEO and polar orbits.

More information can be found in the document archive. A press release is also avaiable. Additional images are avaiable in the gallery section of the website.