Patent ID: 6260802
Filing Date: 2001-07-17
Classification: B64D,B64G

Abstract:
An airborne aerospace vehicle launch system comprised of:a. a pneumatic launch tube positioned in an airplane cargo bay containing an aerospace vehicle/payload system, said aerospace vehicle employing storable propellants;b. modified airplane cargo doors whereby said launch tube extends unobstructed through said modified doors;c. an inflatable/deflatable contoured bellows plug for filling the aft end of said launch tube, thereby maintaining the aircraft's exterior aerodynamic mold lines;d. a sabot for sealing and supporting said aerospace vehicle/payload system within said tube;e. a source of high pressure gas capable of expelling said aerospace vehicle from said tube;f. a jet-air levitation system for floating said aerospace vehicle in said tube at the time of loading the aerospace vehicle into the tube and at the time of ejecting the aerospace vehicle from the tube;g. a variable geometry, scissor-wing aerodynamic upper and lower lifting surface attached to said aerospace vehicle capable of being stowed in said tube prior to launch and deployed subsequent to launch; andh. computer means for monitoring and sequencing operations of said airborne satellite aerospace vehicle launch system.