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Neptune 4000
Launcher
The
modular Neptune 4000 launcher is entering is its final design phase. It is being developed in a cooperative
effort with Interorbital Systems. Engine and guidance system tests are
underway. The rocket is an ultra-low-cost, liquid propellant,
amphibious, orbital launch vehicle. It is being developed to satisfy the need
for an affordable launcher to deliver both manned and unmanned payloads for
Earth orbit, Lunar, and interplanetary missions.
What is
an amphibious space launch vehicle?
An amphibious space launch vehicle is capable of being launched like a
conventional rocket from land or directly from the sea using a technique
referred to as "surf- launch".
Floating- launch
Carrying out launches at sea can in many ways simplify launch operations.
Problems associated with equipment delivery, infrastructure, staging and stage
recovery, and astronaut recovery are largely eliminated. Floating-launch differs
from sea-launch by the fact that an expensive sea-launch platform is not
required. A floating-launched rocket can float autonomously at sea. It is transported
out to the launch area in a specially outfitted ship. Inside the ship's bay, it
remains clean and dry. After being fueled in the processing bay, it is
transferred to the water and placed in a vertical position, using its own
buoyancy properties and a ballast unit. After its engines are ignited
underwater, the rocket literally climbs out of the sea.
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