Utilizing small launch vehicles for multiple small payload missions

The growing number of dedicated small launch vehicles will lower the cost of space access in the coming years but many challenges remain in utilizing these for small payloads particularly Cubesat missions. Cubesats still have a similar number of concerns and obstacles as a secondary payload on a larger rocket as they do on a small rocket such as desired orbital location. Constellation phasing creates another challenge without using on-board propulsion or time consuming differential drag strategies. All of these create additional challenges for the mass/cost constrained Cubesat developer. Many of these challenges can be met through the use of a propulsive rideshare adapter or Small Launch Orbital Maneuvering Vehicle (SL-OMV). The SL-OMV is a low mass and low cost propulsive adapter that can be used to distribute Cubesat payloads (1U, 3U, and 6U) with different orbital parameters than the primary payload. The SL-OMV can remain on orbit for a longer duration allowing for constellation phasing for payloads without propulsion. The SL-OMV can provide an insertion stage capability for the small launchers (both new and existing) as well increasing the capability of the vehicles using a “bolt on” stage. The SL-OMV is designed with the future small launch vehicle systems in mind including using low cost platform avionics and composites, composites for low mass structures, and green propellant for spaceport operations. The SL-OMV can reduce costs for space access using rideshare and enable low cost missions that previously could only be achieved through the expense of a dedicated launch vehicle and propulsive spacecraft. The SL-OMV platform provides mission augmentation as well and can provide many of the services of a spacecraft bus reducing the cost and complexity of the payload.