Evolution of the SpaceLiner towards a Reusable TSTO-Launcher

Abstract

Since a couple of years the DLR launcher systems analysis division is investigating a visionary and extremely fast passenger transportation concept based on rocket propulsion. The fully reusable concept consists of two vertically launched winged stages in parallel arrangement. The space transportation role of the SpaceLiner concept as a TSTO-launcher is now, for the first time, addressed in technical detail. Different mission options to LEO and beyond are traded and necessary modifications of the passenger stage to an unmanned cargo-carrier are investigated and described in this paper. Meanwhile, technical progress of the SpaceLiner ultra-high-speed passenger transport is ongoing at Phase A conceptual design level. Iterative sizings of all major subcomponents in nominal and off-nominal flight conditions have been performed. Potential intercontinental flight routes, taking into account range-safety and sonic boom constraints as well as good reachability from major business centers, are evaluated and flight guidance schemes are established. Alternative passenger cabin and rescue capsule options with innovative morphing shapes were also investigated. The operational and business concept of the SpaceLiner is under definition. The project is on a structured development path and as one key initial step the Mission Requirements Review has been successfully concluded.