Search Results

This paper is an overview of the status of lift fan transport technology. Selected results of recently completed NASA in-house and contractual research investigations are included within the general areas of lift fan transport design: propulsion, acoustics, integrated propulsion/airframe/aircraft control systems, piloted moving-base simulation, and aircraft aerodynamics. On-going NASA lift fan transport research is briefly summarized, and a possible next step in the overall program is suggested.

The joint development of an augmentor wing jet STOL research aircraft by NASA and the Canadian Government Department of Industry, Trade, and Commerce has progressed to the point that the design of the modifications to the de Havilland C-8A Buffalo are complete and the engines are being tested. The predicted performance shows that the airplane will be able to take off and land in less than 1500 ft. Simulation studies indicate that the handling qualities of the airplane, with stability augmentation, will be acceptable for STOL research missions.

The key results of a NASA-sponsored study of a large multipurpose launch concept are summarized. The study evolved, through parametric performance and detailed design analyses, the characteristics of an attractive launch vehicle approach for consideration in future mission planning studies. The reported vehicle system has only two stages: a LOX/LH2 main stage and a solid-motor strap-on stage. The main stage has the performance capability to fly single-stage-to-orbit and the structural capability to accommodate strap-on stages to achieve a broad range of payload flexibility. The salient features of the vehicle system, sized to deliver one to four million pounds to low earth orbit, are described. The major resource and technology implications of the system are discussed.