THE COMPARATIVE-ANALYSIS OF VARIOUS AEROSPACE SYSTEM CONCEPTS

Consideration is given to fully reusable winged two- and single-stage systems powered by hydrogen/oxygen rocket engines, which differ in typ es of takeoff [horizontal takeoff (HTO) using an undercarriage; ground sled-assisted takeoff; air launch from a subsonic carrier; and launch ing-pad vertical takeoff (VTO)].The systems have been optimized and co mpared using two criteria: payload mass and ''dry mass to payload mass '' ratio. The influence of the gross weight of a system and the techno logical level on the criteria involved is being investigated.