High Performance Micro Rocket Stages for Tactical & Space Applications

Given the increasing desire to put small payloads into orbit for rapid, responsive and low-cost access to space, as well as for small tactical stages with increased capabilities, Ventions proposes the design, fabrication, integration and launch of a 4-inch diameter, 5-foot tall flight-vehicle as a demonstration towards advanced miniature launch vehicles and tactical stages. The work proposed herein will build on several component technologies already demonstrated by Ventions under other DARPA / NASA sponsored efforts including regeneratively-cooled, liquid bipropellant rocket motors in the 100lbf size-class, light-weight pressurant tanks and 1” diameter high-speed centrifugal pumps, and will serve as the first demonstration of a highly-integrated, high-performance liquid bipropellant propulsion system for eventual use in tactical stages and small launch vehicles.