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Reinventing Space: Design of Low-Cost Space Missions Course |
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Past Conference Papers:
Responsive Missions - Military
| Paper Number RS1-2003-8001: Responsive Space: Near-Term Options for National Defense | |
| Matt Bille (Booz Allen Hamilton), Tony Williams (Booz Allen Hamilton), Vic Villhard (Booz Allen Hamilton) | |
| View/Download:Presentation | Paper | |
| Abstract: NASA, the U.S. government agency which has invested the most in reusable launch vehicle (RLV) technologies, has developed a revised Integrated Space Transportation Plan (ISTP) to support Space Shuttle operations, development of a crew-carrying Orbital Space Plane (OSP), and investment in technologies for a Next-Generation RLV. The Department of Defense (DoD) space community, led by the Air Force, has a number of space mission requirements, most notably the need for Operationally Responsive Spacelift (ORS), that could be met by a reusable launch system. Accordingly, it is important to examine to what extent the military’s needs can be meshed with NASA’s. The ISTP may offer some innovative possibilities. The OSP, the hardware available from the canceled X-38 Crew Return Vehicle, and the Shuttle itself could all be useful. For instance, NASA’s OSP, when combined with the Air Force Evolved Expendable Launch Vehicle (EELV), will provide a technology base for development of a reusable unmanned craft capable of several missions of interest to the military space community. The reduced need for Space Shuttle flights after the OSP becomes operational could open up the possibility for new DoD missions using the unique capabilities of the Space Shuttle. Finally, the “low end” launch requirements – those concerning rapid delivery of small satellites on demand – may be addressed by any of several innovative systems in development by private entities, DARPA, and the Air Force Space Battlelab. This is also an area of interest to NASA, which has a continuing need to launch small science satellites and a requirement for Alternate Access to Station (AAS). Not all these options will prove practical or cost-effective for NASA or the Air Force, but all demand proper examination. Matching up the current and emerging technologies and requirements is a critical first step toward improving the nation’s space-based military capabilities in a manner the nation can afford. | |
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| Paper Number RS1-2003-8003: DNEPR Program: Prospects and Advantages for Responsive Space | |
| Valdimir A. Andreev (International Space Company), Vladimir S. Mikhailov (International Space Company), Vladislav A. Solovey (International Space Company), Yuri N. Smagin (International Space Company) | |
| View/Download:Presentation | Paper | |
| Abstract: Russian converted Dnepr-1 launch vehicle that has been in operation since 1999 may be of interest to low budget responsive space programs. This launch vehicle possesses the reliability index of 0.97 and the launch price within the range of $7-11 M. Performance capability to LEO is up to 3,700 kg. Prospective performance to GEO is 300 kg. Dnepr-1 will be available at the world’s space market until 2020. The Dnepr Program provides for creation of a space launch system by means of conversion of the Russian SS-18 ICBM. The program was initiated in 1997. Now the low budget programs for responsive space have a unique opportunity to use Russian efficient, low-cost launch system Dnepr-1. This system has a good flight history of 160 launches including 3 commercial flights that accounted for orbital injection of 12 spacecraft. Dnepr launch vehicle is based on SS-18 ICBM that was designed by a big team of Russian and Ukrainian aerospace companies. The SS-18 missile system is in service with the Russian Ministry of Defense. Program for development and commercial operation of Dnepr Space Launch System based on SS-18 ICBMs being eliminated is the largest Russian-Ukrainian conversion program. A large number of SS-18s (about 150) is available for conversion into Dnepr launch vehicles. This establishes a sound basis for implementation of space programs until 2016-2020. International Space Company (ISC) Kosmotras is in charge of the development and commercial operation of the Dnepr-1 launch vehicle on behalf of the presidents, governments and space agencies of Russia and Ukraine. Dnepr-1 is launched from Baikonur Cosmodrome that is located in Kazakhstan and therefore Kazakhstan is also involved in the Dnepr Program operations, which also enjoy the support of the President of Kazakhstan. | |
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| Paper Number RS1-2003-8005: Low-cost, Flexible Spacelift for Research and Development Satellite Using Peacekeeper ICBM Derived Space Launch Vehicle | |
| Tim D. Luddeke (Rocket Systems Launch Program), Horst D. E. Knorreck (Rocket Systems Launch Program), Steven J. Buckley (NGST) | |
| View/Download:Presentation | Paper | |
| Abstract: Over 40 years ago, the federal government decided it was prudent to store decommissioned ICBMs for possible future use. National Space Transportation Policy allows for the use of these assets as space launch vehicles on a case-by-case basis and under specified terms. The Air Force’s Rocket System Launch Program (RSLP) is chartered to store and manage the reutilization of surplus Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles (ICBMs). Over the last 40 years RSLP has launched over 657 orbital and suborbital missions using over 26 booster configurations from 22 different launch locations. RSLP has demonstrated the utility of using converted ICBMs as space launch vehicles with its Minuteman II based Minotaur launch vehicle. This vehicle has successfully flown twice and has three new missions in work. Currently RSLP has more than 1300 Minuteman ICBM motor assets available for use as low-cost launch vehicles and is now receiving deactivated Peacekeeper ICBM motors for use as space launch vehicles. The larger, more capable Peacekeeper boosters can effectively provide small Research and Development satellites low-cost, reliable access to Low Earth Orbit (LEO). This presentation will focus on the Peacekeeper-derived Space Launch Vehicle (SLV) and its potential utility to the small satellite community. One of the most challenging obstacles for researchers interested in experimenting in the space environment is the availability and cost of spacelift. Launch costs are often insurmountable for many programs; often exceeding that of the experimental spacecraft. To date, efforts to reduce the cost of space lift have fallen short of the goal. The average price for lifting a small payload to LEO using commercial small launch vehicles currently exceeds $27,000/lb. RSLP has just awarded the Orbital Suborbital Program-2 (OSP-2) contract. This contract provides a complete launch service for US government customers at a cost substantially below the mission cost for currently available small launch vehicles. This cost savings is possible because the Peacekeeper ICBM program procured the surplus boosters we are using years ago. This results in a 90% cost savings over procuring newly manufactured motors. The new Peacekeeper Space Launch Vehicle (PKSLV) can lift over 1000 kilograms (2200lbm) to a 735-kilometer (400 nautical mile), Sun synchronous orbit. It consists of the first three ICBM motor stages integrated with a newly designed forth stage that uses an Orion 38 solid booster, avionics, and payload interface. The PKSLV will also use a flight proven Taurus 92” payload fairing and Minotaur avionics architecture. The PKSLV fairing has a dynamic envelope of over 80” in diameter and over 120” long. This booster configuration will provide approximately three times the lift capacity of a Minotaur for about the same mission cost. RSLP and the Air Force Research Laboratory, Space Vehicles Directorate are currently developing a Peacekeeper Space Launch Vehicle (PKSLV) Multi Payload Adapter (MPA), designed to allow several payloads to be launched in a variety of configurations to maximize our ability to meet unique customer requirements. More importantly, this multi-payload configuration also allows customers to cost share space access thus reducing their overall program cost. Using the MPA, the PKSLV can lift eight 300lbm satellites into a two-year polar orbit for approximately $20M or $2.5M per satellite. This equates to a pound to orbit cost of about $8,300/lb. A more typical scenario would be lifting a primary satellite of 1000lbm accompanied by three smaller 300lbm secondary payloads launched into a similar orbit. The primary spacecraft would carry the bulk of the launch cost at approximately $9-10M with each secondary contributing approximately $2.5M each, resulting in a significant cost reduction for the primary payload customer and otherwise unavailable access to space for the three secondary payloads at a very reasonable price. The PKSLV will be capable of being launched from Cape Canaveral, Florida, Wallops Island, Virginia, Kodiak Alaska, or Vandenberg AFB, California. These four launch facilities can provide a wide variety of launch azimuths from 28.5-35 degreed from Cape Canaveral, Florida; 38-50 degrees from Wallops Island, Virginia; 65-80 degrees from Kodiak Launch Complex, Alaska; and 72-99 degrees from Vandenberg AFB, California. Launch vehicle processing timelines for the PKSLV, once fully operational, will be around 18 months. This will provide relatively rapid availability of a highly capable launch system for a wide variety of orbital missions. The key to success is the availability of surplus rocket motors with a exceptional lift capacity and reliability, a flexible launch system capable of being launched from a variety of launch sites, the ability to simultaneously support the launch needs of several customers using the MPA and an experienced launch team. The RSLP/Orbital team has a history of providing quality launch services to the small satellite community. The Peacekeeper Space Launch Vehicle will provide more lift capability at substantially lower fly-away costs enabling small satellite missions access to space. | |
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| Paper Number RS1-2003-9002: Responsive Space Launch The F-15 Microsatellite Launch Vehicle | |
| Julia Rothman (AFRL), Erika Siegenthaler (AFRL) | |
| View/Download:Presentation | Paper | |
| Abstract: Space is playing an increasingly important role in the leverage and execution of the United States military missions. The Air Force Research Laboratory’s investment in revolutionary microsatellite (<100kg) technologies has made it possible to consider space missions that provide true military utility, however currently there exists no method of employing these systems in a manner responsive to failure or crisis. This program explores the F-15 launched microsatellite launch vehicle (MSLV) design, capable of ensuring responsive capabilities. Through the conceptual design of a 3-stage F- 15 launched MSLV, concept feasibility is explored based on current technology. Then, a test program is detailed to validate integrated aircraft/MSLV performance providing preliminary results and flight clearance analysis. Finally, other reusable launch vehicles programs are examined and future MSLV capabilities are assessed for near-term microsatellite mission capabilities and cost. This system design will provide the rapid deployment capability and positioning of space-based assets currently needed. | |
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| Paper Number RS2-2004-2002: A Novel Approach to Responsive Space: Lessons Learned by the DoD Space Test Program | |
| Sabrina Herrin (The Aerospace Corporation), Eleni Sims (The Aerospace Corporation) | |
| View/Download:Presentation | Paper | |
| Abstract: This paper explores four Department of Defense (DoD) Space Test Program (STP) missions and identifies lessons learned in successfully achieving responsive space flight. Case studies included are NanoSat-2, Kodiak Star, MISSE 5, and SPHERES. In creating a responsive space mission, often the focus is on getting a space vehicle built and a launch vehicle procured as quickly as possible to get from a conceptual design to data from space in the least amount of time. As STP has found, there are effective responsive space techniques that may be better suited to a mission than merely building and buying components faster. The examination of the four case studies leads to several conclusions: 1) be open to a change in plans and to solutions that have never been attempted, 2) networking will create more opportunities, 3) if one wants to do something quickly, commit wholeheartedly and apply enough resources to make the project work, 4) risks and how to mitigate them should be identified in the beginning of a program, 5) prior to “starting from scratch,” investigate the utilization of existing resources and designs, 6) be prepared to take advantage of opportunities when they come along, and 7) making a project scalable, so that objectives can be accomplished piecemeal, will increase the number of manifest options. | |
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| Paper Number RS2-2004-5004: Leveraging COTS Hardware for Rapid Design and Development of Small Satellites at the USAF Academy | |
| Cristin Anne Smith (USAFA) | |
| View/Download:Presentation | Paper | |
| Abstract: The purpose of the United States Air Force Academy (USAFA) Space Systems Research Program is to give cadets the opportunity to “learn space by doing space” while also providing an orbiting platform for Air Force and Department of Defense (DoD) science experiments as FalconSAT-3 is designed to do. This paper describes small satellite programs at the U.S. Air Force Academy’s Space Systems Research Center. FalconSAT- 2 and FalconSAT-3 are student-built small satellites that provide low-cost access to space for DoD space research & development payloads as well as platforms for student experiments. Rapid, low-cost design is achieved by leveraging Commercial Off-the- Shelf (COTS) hardware to the greatest extent possible. FalconsSAT-2, still searching for an alternate launch opportunity, was the first to demonstrate the use of COTS modules for this use. FalconSAT-3, scheduled to be launched in 2006, recently completed critical design and built upon the successful FalconSAT-2 experience to develop an even more capable spacecraft bus. By using the off-the-shelf equipment, student involvement in satellite and mission design has been accelerated and provided the capability to challenge students This paper is declared a work of the U.S. Government and is not subject to copyright protection in the United States. through more intense participation over the years. Realizing the rapid turnover and extended commitments of students in a senior undergraduate program, there is a delicate balance to be found; one between comprehensive mission and satellite design requirements, and adequate experience in a multi-million dollar, real world space program. The development of the FalconSAT program will first be described in the context of the progress made, followed by a more detailed discussion of the COTS hardware for more efficient development of small student satellites as simple payload platforms for educational and technological purposes. | |
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| Paper Number RS2-2004-A008: Responsive Space (An NRO Perspective) | |
| David Markham (USN) | |
| View/Download:Presentation | |
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| Paper Number RS3-2005-1002: Changing the Value Proposition of Operational Space Missions | |
| Wade Larson (MDA) | |
| View/Download:Presentation | Paper | |
| Abstract: MDA’s strategic ambition is to break the mould of long schedules and high costs, to build a small satellite capability and establish a track record that sets it on the path to the loftier goals of truly responsive space. Our initial objective is to reduce the cost of missions launching in the next three years to around 40-50% of the cost of a traditional approach, without giving up the customer’s core requirements. Our customers rely on a guaranteed supply of information when and where it’s needed. Thus, MDA’s approach is to make missions more economically viable whilst not compromising the customer’s reliable and timely access to essential information. The overall effect is to increase the value proposition to our customers. MDA is achieving its ambition to provide more responsive, lower-cost operational missions by taking non-traditional approaches to development and financing of these missions. The use of off-the-shelf components and components with spaceflight heritage reduces our development costs and time to launch. We are not beholden to internal capabilities, and we select suppliers based on performance, value and reliability. The roles of government and private industry on these missions are innovative and flexible, and depend on the blend of commercial enterprise and the public good. RapidEye, for example, is a commercial Earth observation mission financed by public and commercial partners as well as banks. System design decisions are based on meeting business plan requirements, and have resulted in a highly cost effective and very capable constellation of satellites. The system is capable of delivering the information service to customers reliably and in the timeframe they require. MDA is a vertically integrated information company developing missions with an eye to itself as the customer. For example, Cascade is an MDA company established to provide bulk delivery of data via space. A technology demonstrator will fly as part of the Canadian CASSIOPE mission. Production satellites will be low-cost, quick to build, and launched in response to commercial demand for the service. Increasing the value proposition relies on finding ways to dramatically reduce the cost of operational missions, across their entire lifecycle. On a proposed small satellite hyperspectral-imaging mission, MDA used a highly collaborative cost reduction process that resulted in a 25% reduction in mission cost and only 15% change in system performance. As these examples show, MDA is charting a course from traditional, large and complex missions to rapid, low-cost operational missions in a number of diverse application domains, including Earth observation and satellite communications. In all these domains, MDA has the same objective – to drive down the cost and time to launch of operational space missions. We are demonstrating with today’s programs the ability to halve the development cost with very little impact on operational performance, thereby increasing the value proposition of operational space missions. | |
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| Paper Number RS3-2005-1006: A TACSAT Update and the ORS/JWS Standard Bus | |
| Jay Raymond (Office of Force Transformation), Greg Glaros (Office of Force Transformation), Patrick Stadter (APL), Cheryl Reed (APL), Eric Finnegan (APL), Michael Hurley (NRL), Charlie Merk (NRL), NRL (NRL), NRL (NRL), NRL (NRL) | |
| View/Download:Presentation | Paper | |
| Abstract: In May of 2003, the Office of the Secretary of Defense’s Office of Force Transformation (OFT) undertook an initiative to perform Operationally Responsive Space (ORS) experimentation. Two years later the first experiment, TacSat-1, is launch ready, TacSat-2 is in the integration and test phase, TacSat-3 is underway, and TacSat-4 is in the planning phase. The TacSat-3 experiment took the important step of creating a joint process for mission selection. Each experiment tests key elements needed for a truly operational system, emerging as the Joint Warfighting Space (JWS) system. A necessary element of this system is a spacecraft bus with accepted standards for interfacing with each segment of this ORS/JWS system. The OFT and Space and Missile systems Command (SMC) have therefore undertaken a four phase initiative to develop and test bus standards and then transition them for acquisition. This effort involves multiple government laboratories, industry, and academia participants. The four phases of this initiative provide steady, tangible steps to spiral warfighting capability and receive operational feedback while moving toward an acquisition. This paper discusses this standard bus initiative with emphasis on Phase 3, which is led by the Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) and Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) team. For context, this paper includes portions of the 2003 and 2004 papers and discusses the status and current challenges of ORS/JWS. | |
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| Paper Number RS3-2005-2002: Interim Results from NSSO Responsive Space Operations Architecture Development | |
| Patrick Frakes (NSSO) | |
| View/Download:Presentation | Paper | |
| Abstract: Some measure of responsiveness is likely to emerge as a significant new requirement for our nation’s future space capabilities. The DoD Executive Agent for Space directed the National Security Space Office (NSSO) to develop a Responsive Space Operations (RSO) Architecture to give the senior Intelligence Community and Department of Defense leadership an integrated picture of missions, needs, required capabilities, and current shortfalls associated with responsive space capabilities. In FY04, the Architecture and Engineering Group of the NSSO began development of the RSO Architecture. The Terms of Reference (TOR) was approved and the architecture development team began the process to identify approaches to achieve the long-term (adaptability), mid-term (flexibility), and short-term responsiveness (agility) attributes that space capabilities will need in order to respond to dynamic world environments, national priorities, and operational requirements. NSSO expects the architecture development to be completed in late 2005, but presents an interim “work-in-progress” report, including a discussion of capability needs, applicable technologies, potential architecture concepts, and analytical approaches as the study proceeds into the concept development and analysis phases. | |
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| Paper Number RS3-2005-2004: Small-Satellite Surveillance Missions Providing Unique Military Capabilities | |
| Stuart Eves (SSTL) | |
| View/Download:Presentation | Paper | |
| Abstract: Over the past few years, there has been a growing realisation that small satellite platforms can provide militarily useful levels of capability. But how much of the military requirement can currently be met by small satellites, and how much will be achievable in the future? As military planners weigh up the appropriate levels of investment in both small and large satellites, a robust examination of the requirements is required to identify those areas where small satellites provide unique capabilities that larger satellites cannot offer. For surveillance systems, factors that need to be addressed include metrics related to individual sensor performance, such as spatial resolution; spectral resolution; radiometric resolution; signal to noise ratio; bandwidth; and polarisation. A further set of relevant factors includes system level drivers, such as end-to-end timeliness; the frequency and duration of the coverage provided; the coverage area that must be surveyed; and the geo-location accuracy. Specifications for all of these parameters will depend to a significant extent on the nature of the surveillance targets, their relative importance or priority, and the overall frequency with which such targets might be encountered over the surveillance system lifetime. And then there are less quantifiable military drivers, including national control; robustness; availability; sensor synergy and stealth. This paper will discuss the extent to which small satellites can address the above design constraints today, (bearing in mind that large satellite systems already deliver a significant proportion of the required performance envelope). It will also describe those lines of technology development that will allow small satellites to satisfy more of the military requirement in the future, and thus predict where the future balance of investment choices will be made. The paper will conclude with a description of a military small-satellite constellation designed to address the principal military drivers of the near future – a specific solution that addresses the many competing drivers on the system design. | |
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| Paper Number RS3-2005-4007: Responsive Space Center of Excellence | |
| John E. Hicks (National Nuclear Security Administration) | |
| View/Download:Presentation | Paper | |
| Abstract: The objective of a Responsive Space Center of Excellence is to provide a conduit to rapidly design, build, test and field an operationally relevant microsatellite system; reduce timeliness for development, test, launch, checkout; and provide a responsive capability to the Joint Force Commander within 7-days. The National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) is well postured to develop and manage a Responsive Space Center of Excellence to deliver low cost satellite components and systems for Responsive Space through the application of lean manufacturing, Six Sigma tools and other business management process tools. The objective of this paper is to illustrate that the above mentioned business processes are a must for the success of Responsive Space to provide the Joint Force Commander microsatellite support in 7-days. | |
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| Paper Number RS3-2005-5004: Reconnaissance Payloads for Responsive Missions | |
| Charles Cox (Goodrich Optical and Space Systems Division), Stanley Kishner (Goodrich Optical and Space Systems Division), Richard Whittlesey (Goodrich Optical and Space Systems Division), Fredrick Gilligan (Goodrich Optical and Space Systems Division) | |
| View/Download:Presentation | Paper | |
| Abstract: Operationally responsive Electro-Optical (EO) imaging capability exists and is routinely used to provide intelligence information to the tactical war fighter. This capability is provided by Goodrich Reconnaissance systems having “plug and play” interfaces to strategic (i.e., U-2) and tactical airborne platforms. These operational systems have visible, IR and multispectral capability, and the resulting data readily interface into an existing infrastructure providing timely information to theater commanders. These airborne operational systems can be modified to provide reconnaissance capabilities from space to support the Operationally Responsive Space (ORS) vision. This paper describes these systems, summarizes some of the utility provided by them, and discusses hardware modifications and operational scenarios consistent with lowcost mission requirements. This approach, the modification of existing airborne operationally responsive EO imaging systems, provides a low cost alternative to top-down special-purpose development and leverages a continually evolving product stream to provide ORS payloads. | |
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| Paper Number RS3-2005-A010: Responsive Space: Meeting Warfighter Needs | |
| Larry James (SMC) | |
| View/Download:Presentation | |
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| Paper Number RS3-2005-A011: Tranforming Defense | |
| (Office of Force Transformation) | |
| View/Download:Presentation | |
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| Paper Number RS3-2005-A013: Responsive Space: The Warfighter Perspective | |
| (Space & Global Strike Missions Capabilities Team) | |
| View/Download:Presentation | |
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| Paper Number RS4-2006-1004: Aggressive Surveillance as a Key Application Area for Responsive Space | |
| James R. Wertz (Microcosm), Richard Van Allen (Microcosm), Christopher J. Shelner (Microcosm) | |
| View/Download:Presentation | Paper | |
| Abstract: Traditional space-based surveillance is fundamentally strategic. Systems are expensive and take a long time to develop. Thus, they are intended primarily for global coverage and launched on a schedule largely unrelated to world events. Opponents may be aware of the broad system parameters, such as the orbit, and hide from the system when it is overhead. The goal of aggressive surveillance is to go after the opponent by being able to act or react quickly, at low cost, and in ways that cannot be predicted. In addition, aggressive surveillance allows us to take advantage of technology advances in the shortest possible time, thus significantly magnifying technological superiority. This paper describes key elements of aggressive surveillance and estimates the time and cost required for an initial implementation. These include, but are not limited to: • Low cost, responsive, scalable launch systems • Responsive communications and operations • Responsive orbits • Low cost surveillance payloads, such as visible or IR observation systems, wind lidar, and other potential detection systems • Agile spacecraft for responsive, on-orbit operations • Autonomous, on-board orbit control for the construction of virtual constellations and coordinated observations • Plug and play spacecraft and payload systems for rapid changes or insertion of new technology Initial systems can be developed with a total recurring cost per spacecraft (launch, spacecraft bus, payload, and 1 year of operations) between $15 and $20 million. After the process is initiated, the potential exists to truly change the way business is done in space – in defense, science, education, and commercial applications. In addition, the process and system are inherently scalable, such that savings in both cost and schedule can be rapidly extended to larger systems at a small fraction of the non-recurring cost and time normally associated with traditional, large space systems. | |
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| Paper Number RS4-2006-2001: Responsive Air Launch Using F-15 Global Strike Eagle | |
| Timothy T. Chen (Boeing), Preston W. Ferguson (Boeing), David A. Deamer (Boeing) | |
| View/Download:Presentation | Paper | |
| Abstract: A near term military need exists for a capability to execute global strike, responsive spacelift and space control missions. This paper presents an innovative concept based on integrating off-the-shelf components to provide this capability, while avoiding technology development risk. The concept would utilize an F-15E with minimal modifications to provide a reusable first stage for the F-15GSE (Global Strike Eagle). The upper stages of the F-15GSE would consist of currently available solid rocket motors packaged to meet the mission requirements. The F-15GSE concept could provide an “all azimuth” capability from a single CONUS base while reducing the Delta-V required for orbital insertion by 5000 fps versus a ground launch rocket system. Advantages of an F-15GSE system include: increased mission flexibility, rapid response time without deployment of assets, multiple basing options and covert launches. Operational missions could be completed within two hours while on alert status with minimal infrastructure from CONUS or remote bases. Initially this concept could provide a low-cost demonstration of global strike, while military operational capability could be met with an expansion of fleet size. The F-15GSE would be capable of global reach with delivery of munitions including the Common Aero Vehicle (CAV) and also provide a LEO launch capability for microsats. Planned future upgrades are available to enhance capability for delivering heavier ballistic and orbital payloads. | |
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| Paper Number RS4-2006-2006 alt: Responsive Low-Cost Launchers Available Today, Orbital Launching While Others are Talking | |
| Keith Emerson (Orbital Science Corporation), Scott Schoneman (Orbital Science Corporation) | |
| View/Download:Presentation | Paper | |
| Abstract: Operationally Responsive Spacelift (ORS) is a topic that has been gaining increasing emphasis in support of Military Space operations. There are a variety of new concepts in various stages of development that are specifically focused on this requirement. However, most of them require a significant amount of investment to achieve the ultimate objective of low cost responsive launch. Moreover, as development programs they have little to no actual launch history and are subject to schedule and cost growth risks that are not unusual with new launch vehicle developments. As an alternative, Orbital programs such as the Orbital Suborbital Program (OSP) Minotaur family, Pegasus, and Taurus launch vehicles are fully capable now of meeting most of the ORS objectives with a relatively small amount of additional investment and at much lower risk. While we have heard much discussion of savings in the launch industry in the last couple of years we have seen one unsuccessful launch and many PowerPoint presentations on the transformation that is yet on the horizon. Orbital stands ready to provide responsive space launch capabilities that are far down the learning curve, continue to prove launch success, and have the benefit of launching while the alternative discussions continue. | |
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| Paper Number RS4-2006-4006: A TACSAT & ORS Update Including Tacsat-4 | |
| Col. Tom Doyne (OSD), Cdr. Greg Glaros (OSD), Peter Wegner (AFRL), Lt. Col. Randy Riddle (SMC Detachment 12), Mike Hurley (Naval Research Laboratory), Ken Weldy (Naval Research Laboratory), Chris Garner (Naval Research Laboratory) | |
| View/Download:Presentation | Paper | |
| Abstract: In May of 2003, the Office of the Secretary of Defense’s Office of Force Transformation (OFT) undertook an initiative to perform Operationally Responsive Space (ORS) experimentation. Three years later TacSat-1, 2, 3, and 4 experiments are all underway. TacSat experiments are now jointly selected each year via an iterative mission development process engaging the operational community, COCOMs & Services, and the DoD S&T community. TacSat experimentation leadership and funding has largely transitioned to the DoD S&T community with OSD’s Office of Force Transformation continuing to provide guidance and bus standards development. Each TacSat experiment tests key elements needed for an operational system by taking frequent tangible steps to spiral capability and receive operational feedback, while moving toward an acquisition. The TacSat-4 experiment will use the prototype ORS system-level bus standards and fly in a “low” Highly Elliptical Orbit (HEO) enabling a new set of ORS missions that require dwell, such as communications. In addition to experimentation, ORS has made significant strides toward an operational system. The formal ORS requirements are being developed in the Joint Capabilities Interface Development System (JCIDS) process and preparation of a Joint Program Office, formally planned for FY08, has also begun. This paper discusses the above and, for context, includes portions of the 2003, 2004, and 2005 papers. | |
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| Paper Number RS4-2006-5001: SciBox Based Uplink Operations Planning Concepts for Responsive Space | |
| Andy McGovern (Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory) | |
| View/Download:Presentation | Paper | |
| Abstract: Time sensitive targeting is of keen interest in the C2 arena. Implementations of this concept also appear in civilian space missions in the form “responsive targeting,” meaning an unexpected event warrants a rapid response. The goal in both C2 and civilian arenas is to quickly produce the desired effect at minimal cost and low risk. Techniques that greatly simplify and streamline the processes of mission planning, command sequence generation and command upload have been developed in the civilian space arena by the Applied Physics Laboratory of Johns Hopkins University. We have developed innovative mission operations techniques and software tools for the CRISM instrument on board the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter (MRO). CRISM is a gimbaled visible/infrared spectrometer for analyzing the Martian surface and atmosphere. CRISM’s gimbaled platform and MRO’s roll capabilities make responsive targeting and pointing a challenge that we have addressed. We streamline the process of planning, command sequence generation and upload by linking flight software with planning software via a macro library and a visualization tool. Our approach enables the scientist (or the field commander) to directly task the instrument without the need of an operations support center. Part of CRISM’s mission is to target dust storms which form and dissipate rapidly during one season. Our approach, which enables the scientist to command the instrument at a high level and visualize predicted results, is critical for these time sensitive observations. This presentation provides an overview of our approach to responsive targeting in the context of the CRISM mission and how it may be implemented for responsive space systems. | |
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| Paper Number RS4-2006-7005: Time Critical Targeting Using Responsive Tactical Satellites | |
| John Carrico (Applied Defense Solutions), Travis Langster (Analytical Graphics, Inc.) | |
| View/Download:Presentation | Paper | |
| Abstract: A key enabler for responsive space is the capability to respond to unanticipated military needs in any geographical theater in a timely fashion. The CONOPS and utility for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) have become critical assets in current military operations. UAVs are deployed to specific theaters of ongoing operations. However, when an unexpected national security event of interest occurs, UAVs can not provide the same capability to any location on the globe within hours. However, the migration of UAV CONOPS to space could re-locate an asset to any geographical theater within hours. This paper will discuss the utility of pre-deployed tactical satellites to achieve national security responsive space through modeling & simulation techniques. Scenario — A high value target on the ground is identified via HUMINT sources. A military plan is required to nullify the target. The military plan requires time critical targeting information for pre-mission operations which include imagery and other intelligence data. There are no airborne sensors in-theater to support the mission within the desired timeline. The theater commander requests a capability of a tactical satellite with appropriate sensors be tasked to provide mission support to a forward unit. Concept — A concept of operations for this solution utilizes knowledge and information about the orbit of a rapid response satellite. An in-theater soldier utilizes an existing chat tool (Instant Messenger in the business world or Jabber in military intelligence operations) for computing the window of opportunity for the in-theater soldier to know precisely when an overhead responsive satellite would able to image or intercept signals from the target location. The same device used for the chat session receives imagery or other data via e-mail from the satellite as it passes overhead. Data is downloaded from responsive space satellite to handheld device with Time Critical Targeting information (e.g. imagery, target coordinates, etc…). Alternatively, the device could be outfitted to upload tasking commands of known targets for imagery or signals collection. The commercial software tool computes the precise time of collection opportunity and this start/stop time is uploaded in the tasking plan. Summary — The technology to compute precise collection opportunities and provide them in-realtime to in-theater soldiers is available today. Responsive space concepts can be achieved prior to launching new systems. By implementing unique modeling, simulation & analysis techniques with existing space platforms and within existing military, intelligence, and DoD infrastructures – tactical data from space platforms can be delivered. Responsive space concepts can have immediate military utility and can be enhanced with dedicated responsive space platforms. | |
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| Paper Number RS5-2007-3004: Responsive Space Programs for the Canadian Forces | |
| Donald Bedard (Defense Research and Development Canada), Aaron Spaans (Defense Research and Development Canada) | |
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| Abstract: Until quite recently, Canada’s Department of National Defence (DND) has not had the desire nor the resources to invest in indigenous military satellites mainly due to the high costs associated with conventional space programs. With current operational requirements rapidly evolving the long development time associated with conventional space programs also threatened to deliver an obsolete system by the time the satellite finally arrived on orbit. The emergence of increasingly capable micro-satellites in the last decade has made it such that space-based capabilities are now much more accessible than they were only a decade ago. For the past six years, DND’s research agency, Defence Research & Development Canada (DRDC) has investigated how micro-satellites could be used to provide the Canadian Forces (CF) with an appropriate, effective suite of technologies that best meets national and deployed operational needs. DRDC has developed a strategy that will allow mission concepts to be demonstrated at reduced risks for DND. This R&D strategy includes the development of operational exploitation plans which calls for the rapid integration of the new capability/ asset with existing capabilities. This paper will outline DRDC’s efforts towards developing a sustainable small satellite program. An overview of DRDC’s Space System Group (SSG) will be presented noting its R&D objectives and how it has defined the term “Responsive Space” to meet the requirements of the CF. This will also include a discussion on how the SSG has taken advantage of DRDC’s R&D strategy to establish micro-satellites as solid and viable options for current and future CF needs. The success of this strategy will be illustrated with the presentation of two technology demonstration missions that are currently in the implementation phase: the Near Earth Object Surveillance Satellite (NEOSSat) and the Maritime Monitoring and Messaging Micro-Satellite (M3MSat). | |
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| Paper Number RS5-2007-4001: ORS and TacSat Activities Including the Emerging ORS Enterprise | |
| Tom Doyne (OSD's Director of Defense Research and Engineering), Peter Wegner (Air Force Research Laboratory), Chris Olmedo (Army Space and Missile Defense Center), George Moretti (SMC Space Development Group), Mike Hurley (Naval Research Laboratory), Mark Johnson (Naval Research Laboratory), Tim Duffey (Naval Research Laboratory), Chris Huffine (Naval Research Laboratory) | |
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| Abstract: This paper assembles all the Joint Operationally Responsive Space (ORS) activities underway to clearly explain their purpose, status, and relationship to each other. Activities described include all TacSat experiments (1, 2, 3, 4, & 5), the ORS Bus Standards initiative, Virtual Mission Operation Center (VMOC) efforts, candidate launch vehicles’ status, operational experimentation, the ORS Payload Technology Initiative, and the formal ORS Enterprise emerging in 2007. This paper is the jointly written to properly include and describe all the ORS activities underway. This paper is the fifth in a series on TacSat and ORS; the previous RSC papers 2003-3001, 2004-5003, 2005-1006, 2006-4006 provide history and context for this paper. | |
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| Paper Number RS5-2007-4002: How TacSat-2 is Proving the Military Utility of Web Enabled Space Operations | |
| Terrance Yee (MicroSat Systems) | |
| View/Download:Presentation | Paper | |
| Abstract: MicroSat Systems, Inc. (MSI) recently participated in the launch and early orbit operations of TacSat-2. MSI provided the bus for this spacecraft and worked with a number of other organizations under the auspices of the Air Force Research Laboratory at Kirtland AFB to support integration, test, launch and operations activities. One of the most innovative aspects of this mission is the use of the Internet and World Wide Web to support operations. The utility of these methods was extensively demonstrated during the recovery of the mission following the early loss of communications due to ground system configuration mistakes. In this paper we will describe the capabilities of the TacSat-2 ground system to allow collaboration of a geographically diverse team. We will discuss the implications of these new capabilities on operational TacSat type vehicles and the systems they support with an emphasis on the utility provided to the military end customer. The calculation of such utility is peculiar to the Responsive Space paradigm because great emphasis is placed on the timeliness of delivery of critical information to lower echelon commanders rather than the sheer quantity and quality of total information produced which is more germane to strategic assets. The internet accessible tools created for the TacSat-2 ground system dramatically alter the utility calculations for these types of missions. We will also examine in detail several use cases from the first month of operations that exemplify the new capabilities and highlight their utility. These include cases of time critical responses to demand for new tasks as a result of the nature of the mission recovery where members of the technical team not in the mission operations center generated commands across the internet for operators to authenticate and execute, cases where collaborative planning of daily activities was supported by online tools, cases where international cooperation supported technical analysis of state of health and cases where real time pass support was coordinated across four states and two simultaneous communications links. We will also discuss how the use of the internet has standardized several telemetry products and allowed the creation of third party tools to support telemetry trending and real time notification of spacecraft events. | |
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| Paper Number RS5-2007-A001: TacSat 4 Overview | |
| Tacsat Status Panel | |
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| Paper Number RS6-2008-2003: Angels and Demons – Cooperative and Non-Cooperative Formation Flying with Small Satellites | |
| Stuart Eves (Surrey Satellite Technology) | |
| View/Download:Presentation | Paper | |
| Abstract: The paper will discuss the challenges of both cooperative and non-cooperative formation flying using small satellites; operating either as guardians of larger satellites, or as space situation awareness collection assets. It is axiomatic that Angels or Demons will have different ballistic coefficients to the larger assets with which they are associated, and this leads to specific challenges for the small satellites in order to maintain station. The paper will discuss these challenges, and the potential propulsion system designs that would be appropriate in order to meet them; recognising that in different operational modes, the ideal inter-satellite separation distance could also be different. The paper will also address some specific design requirements that arise for these classes of formation flying systems. For example, in order to maintain their relative positions, both Angels and Demons will require collision avoidance systems to ensure that they do not inadvertently compromise the operation of the primary satellite asset. In the case of an Angel, where cooperative behaviour by the primary asset can probably be assumed, this is a somewhat more tractable problem than for a Demon. This is especially true if the concept of operations for a Demon requires not just a one-time rendezvous with a target, but also a period of continuous station maintenance with a manoeuvring target, and the situation is more complicated still if the Demon is also required to be stealthy. For some surveillance concepts, the relative position of the primary and secondary satellites will be important, (possibly to ensure appropriate lighting conditions for imaging systems, or to provide a line of sight between particular antennas), and clearly the laws of orbital dynamics will influence this over time. This introduces additional design constraints for the Angel or Demon, either of which will presumably wish to retain the option of communication to the Earth whilst performing its mission. The paper will thus conclude with recommendations concerning both the technical design and the concept of operations for these co-orbiting systems. | |
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| Paper Number RS6-2008-6003: TopSat- Assessing the Military Utility of a Tactical ISTAR Demonstrator | |
| H.S. Jolly (Defence Science and Technology Laboratory), D. Beard (Defence Science and Technology Laboratory), T. Burt (Royal Air Force) | |
| View/Download:Presentation | Paper | |
| Abstract: Launched on 25 October 2005, TopSat is a small (<110kg) low-cost (~ $28M), electro-optical (EO) imaging satellite demonstrator designed, built and operated by a British consortium led by QinetiQ under contract to the UK Ministry of Defence (MOD) and the British National Space Centre. Despite early technical difficulties, the programme demonstrated that the UK could successfully build and operate a small, low cost, satellite that could be tasked quickly and provide very fresh imagery. It also provided potential users with insights into how a future system might be employed and also clarified potential user requirements. The military utility of TopSat was assessed by the UK MOD TopSat Users Group (TUG) through an evaluation of the performance of the satellite system during a series of experiments, trials and exercises through 2006-2007. The TUG comprised participants from Front Line Commands and other MOD organisations, and was assembled to undertake the assessment of the military utility of TopSat. This paper presents the joint assessment made by the TUG participants and includes the conclusions and lessons drawn from the programme relevant to the implementation of responsive space. | |
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| Paper Number RS7-2009-1002: Small Unit Space Transport and Insertion (SUSTAIN) | |
| John M. Jurist (Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences, UND), David C. Hook (Planehook Aviation Services), David Livingston (Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences, UND ) | |
| View/Download:Presentation | Paper | |
| Abstract: Cheap, rapid orbital launch (Responsive Space) has been elusive. Three potential approaches, all with different policy and economic implications, are considered. The first, exemplified by Virgin Galactic’s SS-2, evolves current attempts at suborbital space tourism or human-tended science involving brief flights with apogees above 100 km into point to point suborbital transport and then to orbital transport. The second, exemplified by SpaceX’s Falcon series, evolves more traditional aerospace technology with improved management to drive down launch costs on the margin and then hopefully to the point where response space access is accomplished. The third, and in our opinion most viable short term approach, uses requirements addressing national security needs to accelerate development and to exploit currently existing technology or technology that is partially developed and demonstrated. We illustrate this approach by considering the Small Unit Space Transport and Insertion (SUSTAIN) requirement presented by the US Marine Corps. SUSTAIN specifies a capability to place a squad of 13 marines and field supplies anywhere in the world from the continental US within 2 hours. Potential solutions considered and rejected include: ? A DC-X like vertical take-off rocket-powered vehicle that decelerates and lands under rocket power and then returns under rocket power without refueling and refurbishing cannot be developed and fielded in a 5-10 year period. ? An aerospace plane would most likely require development for more than a decade and would also require a landing field near the target area. ? Placing and staffing a constellation of up to 12 space stations with re-entry vehicles is technically possible but economically implausible. Our inexpensive approach for the 5-10 year time frame with current technology is a capsule on a pressure-fed, liquid-fuelled, ablatively-cooled, composite 3 stage vertical take-off rocket-powered launch vehicle. The launch vehicle is a modified Microcosm Scorpius Exodus system. The capsule decelerates aerodynamically during re-entry, decelerates further with a parachute or parasail, and cushions the final impact with small solid-fuelled rockets. Extraction of individual team members could be accomplished by using Fulton Recovery Systems on them individually or by lifting the capsule containing the team to several thousand feet AGL with the capsule abort rocket system and then snagging it in midair with a cargo aircraft. The basic technology required for this approach has been demonstrated over the past ½ century. Most of the technology elements for the Scorpius Exodus have been demonstrated and even flown. Therefore, SUSTAIN could be implemented rapidly and inexpensively. The major developmental element appears to be the capsule. Major impediments to implementing SUSTAIN fall within the political, economic, and policy arenas. A side benefit of this approach to SUSTAIN is a simple, cheap, responsive space launch vehicle. | |
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