Autonomous Intact Abort System for the X-34

Abstract

Autonomous algorithms are developed which provide trajectory guidance for horizontally landing vehicles such as the X-34 under a variety of abort conditions. The nominal guidance system of the X-34 is incapable of directing the vehicle to a safe landing for many possible situations in which trajectory is far away from nominal conditions (as in the case of an engine failure). To minimize the risk of losing the vehicle, the autonomous intact abort system considers multiple landing sites and redesigns certain guidance inputs in order to adapt to the new conditions presented by the abort. The abort system design is demonstrated in a high-fidelity simulation to prove the feasibility of the concept for various engine-out These abort algorithms are being incorporated into the X-34 vehicle to flight test this new technology as a part of the Future X Pathfinder Flight Demonstration Program.