Figure 12-5. Two-stage ballistic HLLV. Payload capability is approximately 270 000 kg. The payload shroud shown is sized for a density of 50 kg/m3. The payload is cantilevered from the forward face of the second stage. The first stage burns for 148 s. After separation, doors are closed over engine openings in the base heat shield and the stage is rotated heat shield forward for reentry. The stage is decelerated using retromotors for landing. It is towed 313 km back to the launch area, refurbished, and prepared for launch. The second stage terminates at perigee of a 92. 6 x 500 km orbit. At apogee circularization delta V is provided by orbit maneuvering system (OMS) motors. Following payload deployment, the second stage deorbits, reenters, retros, and lands on a prepared landing site near the launch site where it is refurbished and prepared for reuse.
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