Rocket Vehicle Design for Small-Payload Delivery to Orbit

Ryerson University is evaluating the potential development of a range of small-payload, high-altitude delivery systems for various applications. In the present application, the delivery of a small payload to a low Earth orbit is examined. Two primary approaches are investigated in this study: ground launch and air launch of a three-stage rocket vehicle, utilizing solid-propellant rocket technology. Factors associated with the flight vehicle's design and performance are presented and discussed. Example performance simulation results for two prototype variants help emphasize the need to weigh carefully the various pertinent parameter considerations in moving through the preliminary design process.