Master's Thesis
Suborbital flight and other long distance travel alternatives
2018
—Key information
Authors:
Supervisors:
Published in
09/04/2018
Abstract
The present thesis is focused on the energy and efficiency analysis of a suborbital flight. A general design framework has been developed in order to compare the different configurations of this method of transportation and other long distance alternatives. First of all, a re-usable multistage rocket has been designed, this will constitute the base for future configurations. Secondly a Waverider and Wingbody type vehicles will be considered for re-entry. Thanks to their capability of generating lift they will perform a Skip re-entry manoeuvre, which will improve overall range and efficiency. As an alternative to suborbital flights a Hypersonic aircraft will be considered. The preliminary design of this vehicle will follow historical trends and data, as well as developing technologies. This configuration will use Turbine-based combined engine, in order to achieve speeds over Mach 5. Finally, this alternatives will be compared with current transportation, such as Jetliners, trains and cars. This will provide a comparison framework for every alternative, giving the best solution for a given range, flight time and number of passengers.
Publication details
Authors in the community:
Guillermo Morena Serda
ist189009
Supervisors of this institution:
Paulo Jorge Soares Gil
ist12912
Fields of Science and Technology (FOS)
mechanical-engineering - Mechanical engineering
Publication language (ISO code)
eng - English
Rights type:
Embargo lifted
Date available:
06/19/2019
Institution name
Instituto Superior Técnico