Outpost, an LA-based Earth return company, is revolutionizing the space industry with its innovative approach to returning cargo from orbit. The company is preparing for the first launch and return of Carryall, a spacecraft the size of a shipping container, reports Payload.
Current Earth Return Methods
Traditional space capsules use ablative heat shields, large stores of propellant, and heavy parachutes for reentry. These methods limit capacity and target accuracy, making it costly and inefficient to return items like science experiments and pharmaceuticals from space.
Outpost’s Innovative System
Outpost’s system, combining several simple technologies, offers a revolutionary solution:
- Satellite Bus: Carries the propulsion system for orbital maneuvers and reentry.
- Heat Shield: Made from 3D woven carbon fiber, it unfolds in orbit to protect the payload and slow the vehicle.
- Container: Ferryall carries up to 100 kg, while Carryall, the size of a 20-ft shipping container, can host up to 10 tons.
- Robotic Paraglider: Deploys upon reentry to guide the spacecraft to its destination with pinpoint accuracy.
Ferryall is designed for SpaceX’s rideshare architecture, while Carryall fits into mid-sized launchers like the Falcon 9.
How It Works
- In Orbit: Carryall exits the launch vehicle and unfolds its heat shield.
- Reentry: The heat shield slows the vehicle to subsonic speeds.
- Parachute Deployment: At 30 km, a drogue parachute stabilizes the spacecraft.
- Paraglider Deployment: At 20 km, the parachute is released, and the paraglider wing guides the spacecraft to its precise landing spot.
Benefits
- High Payload Capacity: Outpost’s system allows for a payload mass fraction of over 50%, compared to 5-10% for traditional capsules.
- Cost-Effective: Reduces the cost of manufacturing in space.
- Precision: Provides point-to-point delivery anywhere in the world with incredible accuracy.
Future Prospects
Outpost aims to lower manufacturing costs in space and open new use cases for in-space manufacturing. The company has signed a $1.7M deal with the DoD for ISAM missions and partnered with NASA to develop the Cargo Ferry for commercial space stations and the ISS.
Outpost’s innovative approach not only makes space manufacturing more viable but also aims to reduce space junk and enhance reusability.
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Source: payloadspace
