Conceptual Design Study of a Vertical Takeoff and Landing Airbreather

In this paper, the authors investigate whether airbreathing engines have useful application to vertical takeoff and vertical landing systems, which currently represent the mainstream for reusable launch vehicles. A theoretical analysis has been performed to determine the net impact of the specific impulse benefits and weight penalties of a vertical takeoff reusable launch vehicle fitted with an airbreathing propulsion system. To maximize the thrust-to-weight ratio of an airbreathing engine, the authors propose using a conventional fan driven by a separate gas generator in lieu of a conventional core airbreathing combustor, as well as combined rocket-airbreathing operation to reduce engine size. The proposed engine system and its propulsive performance are described herein. Furthermore, a new sounding rocket is described as a practical application for the proposed vertical takeoff and vertical landing airbreathing engine. Conventional horizontal takeoff and horizontal landing airbreathing engine concepts tend to focus on maximizing specific impulse and airspeed, which necessitates further development, specifically in the areas of heat-resistant materials and structural technology. By proposing a vertical takeoff and vertical landing airbreather in this study, a different approach is taken and the potential to significantly improve launch capability and reliability is demonstrated in comparison to the current technology level for reusable launch vehicles.