RRS - A Multipurpose Reusable Reentry Satellite

This paper describes a low-cost, multipurpose Reusable Reentry Satellite (RRS) which can carry a variety of experiments into space, remain in orbit for up to 60 days, return autonomously to Earth and be refurbished for reuse. Potential user applications include life science, commercial, and others. As presently conceived, the vehicle is a blunt ballistic entry vehicle with an internal cavity for accommodating user payloads, including those utilizing the STS GetAway Special (GAS) canister. The spacecraft provides payload power, transmits payload data, receives payload commands, and controls payload cavity thermal conditions. A variety of vehicle sizes with base diameters within the range 38 to 100 in. have been investigated. Based on these investigations, a 64-in.-diameter vehicle has been selected as a baseline for conceptual design studies. This vehicle weighs 1900 lb and has an overall length of 76 in. It can accommodate a payload which weighs 450 lb and occupies 21³ ft Up to 30 kWhr of lithium battery power is available for payload use. The results of the studies to date have been very promising. Efforts are continuing at NASA Ames Research Center to define system capabilities and requirements while contracted vehicle study efforts are being initiated.