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Risk Reduction on X-33/RLV EnginesRisk management has received considerable attention in the X-33 and Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV) program due to aggressive schedules, limited funding. and planned private investment to develop the commercial VentureStar vehicle. As an X-33 and RLV team member and main propulsion supplier, Boeing Rocketdyn Propulsion and Power has addressed risk through a methodical application of systems engineering in identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks. The methods employed involve rigorous risk mitigation planning early in development, continuous risk monitoring and assessment during the course of development, and the systematic verification of compliance with technical requirements prior to delivery. In addition, an engine system reliability analysis was conducted to reduce risk. In July 1996, NASA selected Lockheed Martin's "Skunk Works" (LMSW) as the lead contractor for the X-33 and RLV program. The X-33 vehicle is a half-scale pathfinder for the full-scale RLV. The LMSW RLV design is a lifting body shaped vehicle employing linear aerospike engine provided propulsion. The initial X-33 flight is planned for the summer of 2000, and the initial VentureStar flight is planned for between 2005 and 2007.
Document ID
19990115021
Acquisition Source
Marshall Space Flight Center
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Crowley, Tim
(Boeing Co. Canoga Park, CA United States)
Date Acquired
August 19, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1999
Subject Category
Spacecraft Propulsion And Power
Report/Patent Number
AIAA Paper 99-2338
Meeting Information
Meeting: Joint Propulsion
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Country: United States
Start Date: June 20, 1999
End Date: June 24, 1999
Sponsors: American Inst. of Aeronautics and Astronautics, American Society for Electrical Engineers, American Society of Mechanical Engineers, Society of Automotive Engineers, Inc.
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NCC8-115
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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