Low Cost Expendable Launch Technology

Generation Orbit Launch Services, Inc. (GO) proposes a six-month (technical) Phase I SBIR effort to conduct applied research leading to a low cost, high performance commercial upper stage for space launch applications. Two lines of stage improvement will be investigated: 1) high performance composite structures that utilize nanomaterial structures to reduce weight and lower production cost for pressure-fed stages and 2) higher energy propellants for improved density and increased specific impulse. We will advance toward ground testing of proof-of-concept and risk reduction demonstrations under future phases of this project. If successful, these technological advances will be incorporated into our stage manufacturing plans for future commercial GOLauncher and military launch applications.