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Abstract: In the framework of the preparation of the next generation of launchers to be developed in Europe, the European Space Agency (ESA) has contracted NGL Prime and its industrial team to conduct a first slice of launch system and stage design activities and programmatic analyses for two types of launchers: [•] A new expendable mid-term launch system relying on elements or “Building Blocks” from Ariane and Vega to be operational by 2015. [•] A new long-term launch system called the Next Generation Launcher (NGL) to be operational by 2020–2025. The design reference missions include a 5 metric tons performance requirement into a Geostationary Transfer Orbit (GTO), to meet the European institutional need, with the increased capability to 8 metric tons into GTO by the addition of solid boosters, to meet the commercial market needs. In a first step, a series of trade-offs were conducted to select the concepts that best fit the requirements of the NGL and “Building Block” launcher options, in terms of propulsion (thrust level, engine characteristics), propellant choice (hydrogen, methane or solid propellants), launcher architecture (with or without strap-on boosters, bi or three stages architecture). In a second step, more detailed analyses were carried out in term of thermo-mechanical design, functional architecture, as well as in term of versatility capacity, i.e. the capability of the launcher to perform different missions than the reference ones. Consistently with this technical activity, a programmatic evaluation was consolidated by the industrial team. This paper details the outcomes of the activity carried out during this second step targeting at selecting one or two concepts. The paper will also give an overview and first results of the follow-on contract in which selected NGL concepts are being further investigated, in the prospect of creating a new European launcher family encompassing versions dedicated to the institutional needs and the commercial market (reference missions), as well as some versions dedicated to more demanding institutional missions (heavy low orbit payload insertions or escape missions) based on a Common Core Booster approach. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Geosynchronous space missions of ISRO with wide spectrum of payloads provide vital infrastructure for National Development and economic programs. Space technology had grown at a phenomenal rate and complex systems are already operational. Successful mission operations depend very much on many ground systems and knowledge base of the informed operator. An effective balance is to be maintained while using on-board autonomy and automatic operations from ground. The requirement to protect the payload services has increased since the solar activity is reportedly higher during recent times. The rich experience of Geo-mission operations has helped ISRO in formulating suitable algorithms and successfully implementing them to ensure service protection. The other benefit is operational economy since skilled work force is able to concentrate on health analysis and planning rather than routine operations. In this paper, certain case studies are discussed illustrating different levels of automation in ground operations. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]