The Taurus space booster payload interfaces, processing procedures and launch operations for low earth orbit communications satellites

Abstract

The T ~ u ~ I J s ~ ~ space booster has been developed to provide a capability to rapidly integrate the launch vehicle and payloads for launch of small satellites from either remote or fixed launch sites. Initial flight capability of the Taurus launch system will occur in the fall of 1992. The first flight of the Taurus is sponsored by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) for the Standard Small Launch Vehicle (SSLV) program and will deliver a payload to a low Earth orbit. The launch vehicle and system developed to satisfy this DoD requirement also has applications for providing a commercial launch service. A more capable Taurus design is being developed for introduction in 1993 which has the capability to launch either dedicated or multiple small communications satellites. Orbital Sciences Corporation (OSC) has endeavored to develop user friendly electrical and mechanical payload interfaces which facilitate integration of a wide variety of communications and remote sensing systems. TheTaurus vehicle's simple, robust design ensures maximum reliability and significantly reduces launch site testing and support infrastructure requirements. Horizontal integration methods simplify vehicle assembly and payload integration. This report describes the Taurus launch systems, including a description of the vehicle; payload interfaces, volume and delivery capability; field integration methods; facility and ground support equipment requirements; and typical launch operations.