Low Cost Nano and Micro Satellite Launch Stage and Automated Hypersonic Test Platform

HyperSciences, Inc. (HSI) proposes the continued development of the ram accelerator as a low-cost hypersonic launch technology to help accelerate the U.S. development and deployment of hypersonic offensive and defensive systems. The ram accelerator is a novel chemical propulsion device that utilizes a ramjet-like propulsive cycle to accelerate projectiles through a stationary tube filled with gaseous propellant. The ram accelerator bypasses the physical limitations of traditional gun technologies that limit projectile size and velocity capabilities while offering a compelling alternative to first stage rockets as ram projectiles operate without on-board propellant. Ram accelerators are an economical alternative to guns or rockets as they operate with relatively low-cost gaseous propellants and can be used in a wide variety of applications. In defense applications, they can most readily be used for range extension of existing artillery, standalone long-range artillery solutions, hypersonic intercept, as an aeroballistic test range, or as a testbed for evaluating or developing other hypersonic systems. In aerospace, ram accelerators can be used for replacing/augmenting sounding rocket launches, first stage replacement in orbital launch of small satellites, and ultimately, first stage placement of large orbital launch systems. Ram accelerators also have robust industrial applications, including commercial and civil tunneling and mining applications. HSI proposes to develop a 50 mm diameter ram accelerator system and demonstrate the acceleration of a projectile up to Mach 5-7. HSI will also characterize the projectile environment within the ram accelerator, launch a projectile carrying an embedded dart through the ram accelerator, and produce a conceptual design of a 200 mm diameter ram accelerator system, capable of reaching Mach 5-7. To achieve these goals, HSI will upgrade and extend its existing 50 mm ram accelerator system which has already demonstrated operation up to Mach 2.9. The completion of this work will position HSI with the proof-of-concept demonstration and critical data to directly partner with a government customer in the development of an application-specific 200 mm ram accelerator system.