Patent ID: 8403254

Claim:
An aero-assisted pre-stage for launch of single-stage and multiple-stage space vehicles, comprising: a. an airframe to which a space vehicle is attached to form a stack, said airframe having an aerodynamic shape capable of providing aerodynamic lift sufficient for take-off at subsonic airspeeds and ascent of said stack using propulsion of said pre-stage, b. short-burn rocket propulsion means mounted to said airframe for providing thrust to said stack, said thrust being sufficient for take-off and ascent of said stack to a separation altitude, c. said airframe having a planform suitable for launch and transport of said space vehicle to said separation altitude, d. said airframe having an undercarriage for enabling roll-out of said stack at take-off, e. said airframe having a flight control system for providing flight control of said stack and glide of said airframe after separation, and f. said airframe having a hold-and-release mechanism for holding said vehicle to said airframe and releasing said vehicle as soon as said separation altitude is reached, whereby said aero-assisted pre-stage enables said vehicle to be launched from runways in a horizontal take-off fashion.