Technical Background and Challenges of the SpaceLiner Concept

Abstract

At the Space Launcher System Analysis (SART) department of DLR-Cologne, a hypersonic spaceplane for passenger transportation is being investigated. The spaceplane is called the “SpaceLiner”. The vehicle performs its rocket powered, intercontinental flight via a suborbital trajectory. The paper describes the latest developments and improvements on the design of the SpaceLiner. The aerodynamic heating of the vehicle is discussed, and a possible solution for handling the extreme heatloads will be presented. The solution involves an innovative new way of transpiration cooling, using liquid water.