BLUSHIFT AEROSPACE INC — Department of Defense SBIR Phase II: X224-ODCSO2

Description

bluShift wants to use our core technologies to develop a launch vehicle system that can be used as a responsive method of quickly launching, assisting, or re-deploying small satellites that are critical for national security or other basic functions that keep America running safely and securely. These small, robust, storable, and nimble launch vehicles will form the bluShift RTSLS fleet (Responsive and Tactical Space Launch System). bluShift has been developing a simple hybrid (solid fuel, liquid oxidizer) propulsion system, that has simplicity and robustness benefits over full liquid propulsion systems, and safety benefits over solid propulsion systems, while retaining some of the benefits of solids (storability) and of liquids (control and start/re-start capability). This unique propulsion system is referred to as MAREVL (Modular Adaptable Rocket Engine for Vehicle Launch), and bluShift envisions many exciting applications for the technology. Part of the MAREVL development roadmap included a successful NASA phase I SBIR. One key benefit is the bio-derived fuel that is completely non-toxic and storable, eliminating many of the traditional environmental concerns with launch vehicle mishaps. The oxidizer is also non-toxic and storable. bluShift will be using the MAREVL propulsion system in commercial launch vehicles tailored for the launch of small satellites (