Christopher T Varner

US Patent:

49643401, Oct 23, 1990

Filed:

Oct 7, 1988

Appl. No.:

7/254601

Inventors:

Mark H. Daniels - Houston TX
Jack Funk - Houston TX
Wyendell B. Evans - Friendswood TX
Christopher C. Varner - Houston TX

Assignee:

Space Services, Incorporated - Houston TX

International Classification:

B64G 140

US Classification:

102377

Abstract:

The invention relates to a multistage launch vehicle and method of multistage launch vehicle operation in which at least one subsequent motor stage is ignited following lift-off in partially overlapping relationship with its immediately preceding motor stage prior to shut-down and staging of the preceding motor stage in order to effect positive thrust control over the launch vehicle throughout shut-down and staging of the preceding motor stage. Preferably, each of the motors comprising the subsequently fired motor stage is provided with a thrust profile in which maximum thrust is attained prior to staging of the preceding stage.