Rapid ASCENT Propellant Loading Operations

The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) has developed a new green propellant, ASCENT, which has been ushered into industry as a non-toxic replacement to hydrazine. As part of the GPIM mission, AFRL developed a new propellant loading system for ASCENT. The propellant ground support equipment (PGSE), comprised of four separate carts, was not relayed to industry. Mainstream seeks to simplify and improve upon the AFRL-developed PGSE by consolidating the system into one cart. Materials and components will be selected and tested with the ASCENT propellant, culminating in a new propellant loading system. Mainstream’s extensive experience developing both military and consumer products will aid in creating a cost-effective and polished solution. Procedures and checklists will be necessary to achieving repeatable success. As part of this effort, Mainstream will also develop a preliminary CONOPS that will be used during propellant loading operations. Key stakeholders will be consulted during the drafting of this document such as launch vehicle and spacecraft providers, range and ground safety, and primary payload integrators. Mainstream’s CONOPS will adhere to relevant range safety documents such as Air Force Space Command Manual 91-710. In the Phase II effort, Mainstream’s PGSE will be built and used in a simulated propellant loading exercise. In addition to hardware validation, loading procedures will be refined.