A cost estimation model of the Sea Launch and Recovery Space Transportation System

Abstract

The Sea Launch and Recovery Space Transportation System is envisioned as a means of achieving not only more effective but lower cost space operations. The development of a cost estimation model is important in determining the feasibility of this system. The purpose of this thesis is to provide a cornerstone for the design of such a cost estimation model. The model presented here can be used to compute the minimum cost per mission as a function of selected design variables. The particular variables considered are the type or types of materials used in the fuel tanks of the rocket and characteristics of the fuel logistics, such as port locations. Thus, it is a tool to be utilized by the system designers in judging the value of particular rocket fuel tank designs. It can also aid in the selection of the operational port for the system. Implementation issues are discussed and evaluated. Future enhancements to the model are also discussed.