Novel/Emerging Technologies for Low-Cost, Mobile, and Rapid Access to Space

In two separate technical inquiries DSIAC was asked to assess emerging technologies aiming to capitalize on the desire for low-cost, mobile, and rapid small payload launch capability to space. One technology of interest is Stofiel Aerospace’s hybrid balloon/3D-printed aerospike single-stage to orbit (SSTO) launch system to deliver micro- or nano-satellites into space. The information requested included the current technology readiness level (TRL) as well as the estimate of schedule and cost to reach each of the proceeding TRLs and produce a system ready for operational testing. The other technology of interest is RocketStar LLC’s aerospike engine that will facilitate an SSTO launch capability for micro-satellites and larger payloads. Many (most) components of the aerospike engine are additively manufactured (AM) to help reduce costs.