RDRE Transfer Vehicle for Tactically Responsive Access to High Orbits

Astrobotic proposes to develop its Chakram LOX/LCH4 RDRE propulsion system for tactically responsive orbital transfer operations. RDRE is a transformative propulsion technology that will provide efficient, compact, and stable propulsion with improved mass and volume properties. These performance improvements are especially promising for OTVs, as RDREs are expected to significantly increase OTV payload capabilities and reduce transit time by providing more thrust and higher specific impulse in a smaller package. As a first implementation of this revolutionary propulsion technology, Astrobotic is developing a 5,000-lbf variant of its Chakram RDRE for use on an OTV called “Phoenix” (Precision High Orbit Efficient Navigation and Insertion eXpress). Phoenix leverages mature components, structures, and systems from other Astrobotic vehicles, decreasing risk and NRE. Phoenix would be a first-of-its kind compact OTV that benefits from the efficiency and packaging of a methane-fueled RDRE to deliver payloads to MEO and HEO within hours and to cislunar space within a few days. Under the effort proposed herein, Astrobotic will mature the design of the Chakram propulsion system and conduct a hot-fire test campaign of the modified Chakram thrust chamber assembly that will demonstrate the thrust output, throttleability, and reliability needed for Chakram to execute a delivery of satellite assets from LEO to higher orbits on a tactically responsive timeline.