CompositesWorld
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SEPTEMBER 2017 58 CompositesWorld WORK IN PROGRESS ยป Best known as the supplier of the solid rocket boosters used on NASA's previous Space Shuttle program, Orbital ATK's (Dulles, VA, US) primary line of business has always been its solid-fuel booster systems that power a variety of US military nuclear missiles and interceptors. Recently, in an effort to branch out, the company has taken aim at the intermediate- and heavy-class space launch market with the introduction of its Next-Generation Launch (NGL) system. e rocket's primary components, including the solid-fuel motors and composite case, are currently undergoing testing at ATK's facility in Magna, UT, US. e project is part of the US Air Force's Evolved Expendable Launch Vehicle (EELV) program. Its goal is to develop new US-built booster launch systems that will effectively end current reliance on the Russian- built RD-180, which has been the only rocket that could provide the launch capabilities the US requires. In parallel with Air Force strategic objectives, Orbital ATK is looking to leverage the technological synergies envisioned in the 2014 merger of Alliant Techsystems (ATK), with its experience in Launch vehicle supplier Orbital ATK is looking to break into the burgeoning commercial space market with a rocket motor that features an all-carbon-fiber composite casing. Composite cases fuel commercial space venture solid fuel propulsion, and Orbital Science, with its expertise in launch vehicle systems. e NGL is expected to demonstrate the combined company's capability to craft total vehicle solutions, thus paving the way to a larger footprint in the commercial space market. CFRP for solid fuel main stage e NGL will illustrate that thesis with a hybrid launch system that comprises a segmented solid-fuel main stage and an upper stage powered by a cryogenic engine. e basic segment, referred to as the CASTOR 300, is 3.66m wide by 9.5m long. Its exterior case, of carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP), is built with a unique joint system, which provides the flexibility to manufacture three different rocket systems, depending on launch and payload requirements: a single segment, the CASTOR 300; a CASTOR 600, comprising two segments 19m in length; and a CASTOR 1200, combining four segments, at a total length of 38.4m. e company is planning to build two versions of the combined first and second stage launch system: the 500 Series and the Lightweighting for heavy-class payload delivery Orbital ATK's Next Generation Launch (NGL) system has been targeted for the intermediate- and heavy-class commercial space launch market. The segmented rocket, which features a carbon fiber case, will be powered by a solid fuel main stage and a cryogenic upper stage. The company intends to build two versions of the NGL, with a maximum payload capacity of 5,250 to 8,500 kg. Source | Orbital ATK By Michael LeGault /Contributing Writer