Propulsion and aerodynamic analysis of the Beta II two-stage-to-orbit vehicle
A study of a revised version of the Beta II two-stage-to-orbit vehicle has been undertaken. The goal of the study was to modify and refine critical components of the NASA/Boeing/Wright Laboratory Beta II booster design to better define a successful baseline vehicle that can provide routine access to space. The vehicle geometry was modified and corresponding aerodynamics were predicted. The propulsion system was improved by refining the nacelle design which included incorporating a variable capture area inlet, replacing the five High Speed Civil Transport derived turbine bypass turbojet engines with four variable cycle turbofan engines per nacelle, and removing the bypass duct system. The ramjet performance was adjusted for the change in airflow due to the variable capture area inlet. The second stage wing-body orbiter design was not modified for this study. The total Beta II takeoff weight which resulted was approximately 1.0 million pounds.