Liquid rocket boosters for Space Shuttle

Abstract

A study is reported which demonstrates the feasibility of a liquid rocket booster (LRB) for the Space Shuttle and develops viable abort capabilities to minimize first stage launch risks. The applicability of the LRB and its derivatives to related launch requirements is also shown. Such applications would make the LRB the core of a family of launch applications with both cost and reliability improvements resulting from increased production scale and flight experience.