Small Shuttle-Compatible Propulsion Module

The development of an orbital Maneuvering and Transfer Vehicle (MTV) that can be safely manifested aboard the Space Shuttle and meet U.S. Air Force Space Test Program orbit transfer performance requirements is critical to launching secondary experimentalpayloads from Space Shuttle Hitchhiker Experiment Launch System (SHELS). The objective of this project is to develop a prototype MTV Propulsion Module and to support Air Force Research Lab (AFRL) SHuttle Expendable Rocket for Payload Augmentation (SHERPA)Integrated Program Team (IPT) requirements definition and integration efforts. Phase I demonstrated the general feasibility of the Propulsion Module, and we have determined that there are no significant technical hurdles to be crossed during the Phase IIprototype development stage. We have experimented with the trade space for the Propulsion Module and created a basic concept for the Propulsion Module. We will continue to develop this concept as Phase I is completed and the SHERPA IPT advances therequirements process. Phase II will pursue the development of a full-scale prototype MTV Propulsion Module incorporating a hybrid motor that will demonstrate the functional characteristics and technology of an MTV hybrid motor. Our proposed PropulsionModule is a scalable, affordable and modular design that utilizes safe, storable propellants (nitrous oxide and Plexiglas). As a result, it is an ideal kick stage for small payloads that fly as Space Shuttle secondaries. Hybrid motor technology providesrestart and throttling capabilities and the greatest of ease in handling, storage, and transport.The only factor suppressing small satellite market growth is the lack of available and affordable access to space. We believe that by applying new innovations to safe,