ALASA

Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) in the US is working on a programme to develop new technologies to launch 100lb satellites into low earth orbit within 24 hours.

Called Airborne Launch Assist Space Access (ALASA), the programme aims to design a low-cost, expendable launch vehicle from conventional aircraft, as well as reduce cost per flight to $1m.

The aircraft could serve as a reusable first stage, as well as fly to high altitudes and release the launch vehicle.

DARPA ALASA programme manager Mitchell Burnside Clapp said: "ALASA seeks to overcome the limitations of current launch systems by streamlining design and manufacturing, and leveraging the flexibility and re-usability of an air-launched system.

"We envision an alternative to ride-sharing for satellites that enables satellite owners to launch payloads from any location into orbits of their choosing, on schedules of their choosing, on a launch vehicle designed specifically for small payloads."

"The first ALASA flight demonstration is planned to be carried out later this year, with plans for the first orbital launch test in the first half of 2016."

The programme completed Phase 1, which yielded three viable system designs. For Phase 2 of the programme, Boeing was selected as the prime contractor to conduct 12 orbital test launches of an integrated prototype system.

The second phase design will make use of commercial-grade avionics and advanced composite structures. ALASA intends to implement a new high-energy monopropellant, which will combine fuel and oxidiser into a single liquid.

The monopropellant will allow the creation of simpler designs, and offer lower manufacturing and operation costs over traditional designs that use liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen.

DARPA Tactical Technology Office director Bradford Tousley said: "We’re moving ahead with rigorous testing of new technologies that we hope one day could enable revolutionary satellite launch systems that provide more affordable, routine and reliable access to space."

The first ALASA flight demonstration is planned to be carried out later this year, with plans for the first orbital launch test in the first half of 2016.

Based on these test results, the programme will proceed with another 11 demonstration launches throughout 2016.

Image: The ALASA programme aims to design a low-cost, expendable launch vehicle from conventional aircraft for satellite launches. Photo: courtesy of DARPA.