High Energy Micro Rocket Stages for Tactical & Space Applications

Andrews Space, Inc. proposes to test new high energy density propellant combinations and conduct a feasibility study on their applications. These propellants are enablers for use in high performance tactical missiles, high delta-V single stage vehicles such as a suborbital point to point vehicles, and compact high energy upper stages. Our Phase I approach is to develop stage and vehicle designs that leverage 40 years of launch operations experience and are consistent with the environmental considerations of the present day. Specifically, we are focused on using “green” propellants that are non-toxic, non-carcinogenic, and are, ideally, non-cryogenic at room temperatures. Previous “green” liquid fueled high energy density vehicle studies and development activities have focused on a range of bi-propellants options leveraging combinations of LOX or H2O2 and hydrocarbon based fuels. For this effort Andrews will use RP-1, in combination with both LOX and H2O2 depending on the mission application, to represent the “state of the art”. Based on previous studies there are only a few identified propellant combinations that provide better overall stage / vehicle energy density and performance than RP-1 using LOX or H2O2 as the oxidizer. Andrews will evaluate these other non-traditional fuel options including a previously unstudied fuel mixture.