AEROSPACE CHINA

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China Aerospace Academy of Systems Science and Engineering

ISSN 1671-0940

CN 11-4673/V

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AEROSPACE CHINA ›› 2016, Vol. 17 ›› Issue (2): 37-44.

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Low Cost and Reusability of Launch Vehicle

  

  1. China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology, Beijing 100076
  • Online:2016-06-16 Published:2019-11-26
  • About author:LU Yu (1958- ) graduated from Beijing Institute of Technology (BIT) with MS degree. He is Vice President of China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology (CALT) and Director of Science and Technology Committee of CALT. He is academician of International Academy of Astronautics (IAA) and past Chairman of the IAA commission 3 (space technology and system development commission). He is the Co-editor of “ACTA Astronautica”, and Director of editorial board of the “Missile and Space Vehicles”.

Abstract: This paper analyzes the launch price of the launch vehicles, domestic and abroad, studies the status and trend of the low cost launch vehicles, and introduces two measures to reduce the cost by means of evolved and disruptive technologies, utilizing the concept of low cost manufacturing and operating modes as well. This paper also analyzes the launch strategies for small satellites such as piggyback, networking launch, and single launch with a small launch vehicle (SLV). Finally, the development trend of reusable launch vehicles is discussed as well as the development prospects for China’s reusable launch vehicle.

Key words:  Launch vehicle, Low cost, Small satellite, Commercial space, Reusable