Systems Engineering for the NASA Satellite Launcher ‘Scout’ Research Vehicle

Abstract

The “Scout” Solid Propellant Research Vehicle being produced today satisfies the scientist’s need for a booster system capable of launching medium weight payloads. It provides simplicity, economy and reliability with operational flexibility in mission profiles. The NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration, U.S.A.) “Scout” vehicle is one of a family of “work horse” research vehicles, including “Thor-Agena B”,“Centaur”, “Saturn” and “Nova-Concept”. This family will provide a complete range of vehicles for peaceful space exploration, as noted by Dr. Wernher von Braun, in his lecture of August 16, 1960, titled, “United States Space Carrier Vehicle Program”.