LOX-Propylene Propulsion Testing for a Nanosat Launch Vehicle

LOX / propylene propulsion has the potential to achieve higher specific impulses than LOX / RP-1 while still providing comparable propellant densities if the propylene is chilled to cryogenic temperatures. Consequently, it has been selected as the baseline propellant combination for both stages of a proposed Nanosat Launch Vehicle that is designed to deliver payloads on the order of up to 10 kg to low Earth orbit. Initial testing has focused on assessing operational issues related to propylene and refinement of the LOX / propylene ignition sequence. Current research efforts have expanded to also include preliminary development of a full-thrust NLV first stage engine and preparations for eventual flight demonstration tests.