Sponsor Package - Australian Space Research Institute

AUSROC 2.5
PROJECT
PLAN
FORGING AUSTRALIAN SPACE CAPABILITY

THE ORIGIN OF ASRI
In the forty years since the launch of Wresat 1, Australia’s once world class space industry has
declined to a near standstill. At the same time, space and related high technology products
have become increasingly important throughout the world in a broad range of commercial
applications. Whilst our nation’s leaders have been rhetorically proclaiming Australia to be
the clever country, in space we have been left well behind by many other comparable nations,
including a significant number of our close Asian neighbours. The harsh reality is that as a
nation, we are now unable to offer our children many of the exciting, challenging and globally
competitive opportunities generated by the space industries of other countries.
It is against this background that Australian Space Research Institute Limited was formed. It’s
strategic mission is to promote space technology and industry development within Australia.
The primary tool with which it does so is education, for human ingenuity is at the heart of all
technological advancement.
Our vision is the re-establishment of Australia as a significant player in the global space industry

FOREWORD AND
CONTENTS
The Ausroc 2.5 Project is one of the most advanced initiatives of its type in the world. It is one
of the most ambitious high technology education and development programs ever undertaken in
Australia. The methods by which the Project is being advanced are revolutionary. The vehicle
being developed is more sophisticated than any other rocket previously developed in this
country.
From humble beginnings, the Ausroc Program is maturing into a pathfinder for the re-entry of
Australia into the global space industry. Advancement of the Ausroc Program relies upon the
continuing support of Government, Academia, Industry and the Australian public generally.
The purpose of this publication is to provide present and future supporters of the Program with
some insight into the Ausroc 2.5 Project, its operation and objectives.
CONTENTS
Part Topic Page
1 ASRI AND ITS PROGRAMS 2
An overview of ASRI and the major programs presently being undertaken.
2 WHAT THIS PROJECT OFFERS 13
The benefits that may be enjoyed through support of the Ausroc 2.5 Project.
3 PROJECT MANAGEMENT 20
The project management structure and operation.
4 SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT 28
Details of the Ausroc 2.5 systems under development.
5 LAUNCH OPERATIONS 40
The contemplated arrangements for the launch of Ausroc 2.5 vehicles.
6 LIFT OFF AND BEYOND 48
A description of an Ausroc 2.5 mission and future directions.
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ASRI AND ITS PROGRAMS
ASRI AND ITS
PROGRAMS
1.1 Constitution and management
Australian Space Research Institute Limited (ASRI) is a limited liability public company. It was
formed to provide focused, nationally integrated programs for the advancement of space
science, technology and education within Australia.
The constitution of ASRI provides for the furtherance of these objectives on a non-profit basis.
This means that the organisation is free to engage in initiatives in the broader national interest,
unfettered by a requirement of showing a financial return to shareholders. The membership of
ASRI does not expect any financial return for its commitment.
The corporate structure of ASRI is depicted in the diagram below.
1.2 Objectives and strategies
The ultimate objective of ASRI is to ensure that Australia is better positioned to participate in
the emerging multi-billion dollar commercial space industry through education, technology
development and industry development initiatives.
1.2.1 Education
Education is both an objective in its own right and the primary tool with which ASRI seeks to
tackle the broader objectives of space technology and industry development within Australia.
The educational value of our programs arises through the development of advanced skills,
knowledge and experience among the undergraduates and professionals involved. The programs
provide a valuable opportunity, not otherwise available in Australia, for “hands on” education in
space related fields.
1.2.2 Technology development
The honing of skills, knowledge and experience promotes technological advancement in itself.
Our programs also provide the subject matter and opportunity for innovative development.
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ASRI Corporate Structure
Research
Committee
Board of
Directors
Safety
Committee
CEO
Legal Manager
Information
Systems
Manager
Academic
Manager
Treasurer
Membership
Manager
Communications
Manager
Safety Manager
Program or
Project #1
Manager
Program or
Project #2
Manager
Program or
Project #3
Manager
Program or
Project #N
Manager
ASRI Executive
ASRI Membership
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1.2.3 Industry development
Poor public understanding of the benefits of a space industry, low domestic capability in key
areas and a lack of confidence in the ability of Australia to compete in high technology
industries make it difficult for Australian initiatives to attract public and private sector support.
Our programs are intended to address these difficulties by:
• Building public confidence through demonstration of domestic capability coupled with
managed media coverage of activities. In addition, our school level programs build
confidence in younger generations.
• Improving capability through development of relevant systems, expanding our domestic
skills base and establishing networks to support initiatives in this area.
• Promoting better public understanding of the benefits of a space industry through media
coverage of programs.
1.3 Function and methods
The primary function of ASRI is to focus and co-ordinate work undertaken by members and
others throughout Australia. In this respect ASRI operates in a similar manner to a head
contractor supervising the design, construction and evaluation of a product by sub-contractors.
However, ASRI is a non profit organisation with limited resources. By necessity, methods have
been developed that permit substantial projects to be undertaken at very low cost. These
methods include:
• Capitalising on positive attributes of the programs such as media coverage.
• Using surplus materials, facilities or other unharnessed resources found throughout our
community. For example, a significant amount of valuable input is received from qualified
individuals who have retired.
• Providing the subject matter, co-ordination and support to enable development of
components to be undertaken as part of undergraduate and professional further education
and training. Students benefit from working on challenging projects of real application.
The community benefits from the efficient use of educational resources.
1.4 Programs
ASRI has a number of active Programs and
Projects including:
1.4.1 Satellite Program
The objective of the Satellite Program is to
develop a low cost, highly autonomous microsatellite
bus suitable for use in a broad range of
applications including low earth orbit
communications, remote sensing and small scale
space science experiments.
The majority of work undertaken to date has focused
on systems definition, design, and prototyping core
subsystems. Top level design and prototypes have
been completed for the attitude control, telemetry,
power and communications systems.
Computer model of an ASRI micro-satellite
design.
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ASRI is also undertaking collaborative activities with other micro-satellites of proven foreign design as
part of a complimentary program.
1.4.2 Small Sounding Rocket Program (SSRP)
ASRI has a large number of ‘Sighter’ and ‘Zuni’ solid fuel rocket motors available for use in
educational and scientific programs.
The Sighter rocket motors are approximately 8 centimetres in diameter, 140 centimetres high
and are capable of accelerating small payloads to well over the speed of sound. The larger Zuni
rockets are approximately 13 centimetres in diameter, 195 centimetres high and can achieve a
peak velocity of over 2.5 times the speed of sound within a second from launch. Altitudes of 4
to 7 kilometres are typical, although the peak
velocity and altitude can be increased
enormously by using the rocket motors in
multiple stage configurations.
The size and performance of the Sighter and
Zuni rockets make them ideal for launching
small school and university developed
experiments. The rockets also provide a
valuable opportunity for testing critical
systems, techniques and procedures under
development for more substantial projects
such as Ausroc 2.5.
Educational programs using these rockets are
being organised throughout Australia with
the objective of conducting at least 10
launches per annum from 2006.
Approximately 80 launches have already
been conducted since 1996. The photograph
appearing to the left is of inert rockets on
display to the media during trials at
A Sighter and larger Zuni rocket. Woomera in South Australia.
1.4.3 Wagtail Program
ASRI is supporting a University of Queensland led
program aimed at developing an inexpensive scientific
sounding rocket, and associated manufacturing facilities,
to launch experiments to high speeds and/or altitudes.
The rocket facility’s immediate objective is a small twostage
rocket able to boost a payload of at least 10kg
mass to at least 100km or Mach 6 at 30km altitude. A
prototype second-stage motor has been successfully
static tested. Progress is being made towards the goal of
launching an affordable, high-performance scientific
research rocket by 2007.
It is hoped that this project will stimulate rocket-borne
experimentation in Australia and attract international
rocket research business.
Wagtail 2 stage sounding rocket
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1.4.4 Ausroc Program
The Ausroc Program is clearly our most
well known and ambitious Program. The
ultimate goal of the Program is to
develop a low cost micro-satellite launch
vehicle utilising technologies that can be
scaled up for use in heavier launch
vehicles.
The Program is structured in four stages,
designated I through IV. Each is
significant as a proving platform for
technologies and systems incorporated
into its successor. The Ausroc I and II
stages have now been completed. The
photograph to the right shows the
contemplated evolution of the Ausroc
series of rockets. The Ausroc 2.5 Project
forms a technology development and
demonstration ‘bridge’ between the
Ausroc II and Ausroc III Programs.
Ausroc I
Ausroc I was a small liquid fueled rocket
which used a hypergolic (spontaneously
combusting) acid-alcohol combination as
propellants. It served as an introduction
to liquid fuel rocket systems and the hazards involved. Ausroc I was successfully launched in
1989.
Ausroc II
Models of Ausroc I to Ausroc IV Program Vehicle
Configurations
The Ausroc II class of vehicle was substantially more sophisticated than the Ausroc I class
vehicle and was intended to generate an experience base in the construction and operation of the
rocket systems that are to be used in the latter Ausroc series Projects. It was 6 metres long, 25
centimetres in diameter and operated on a powerful combination of pressure fed liquid oxygen
and kerosene.
Two Ausroc II class rockets have already been constructed. The first was destroyed in a fire on
the launch pad after the main liquid oxygen valve froze shut during unexpected launch delays.
The second was successfully launched in 1995 amid intense media interest and significant
public applaud. The launch gained international acclaim and publicity through a British
produced documentary.
Ausroc II engine during a test firing at Ravenhall, Victoria
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The Ausroc II-2 Team at Woomera in 1995. This photograph was staged for the media during a briefing the
day before the scheduled launch. Unfortunately, the launch was delayed for several days due to high winds
and cloud associated with a cold front that can be seen approaching in the background.
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The successful launch of Ausroc II-2.
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Ausroc 2.5
The Ausroc 2.5 Project is a bridging project between the Ausroc II and III Programs. Ausroc 2.5
is now in development at 7.5m length and 30cm diameter, and is the subject of this publication.
It will be fuelled by the same liquid oxygen and kerosene combination that fuelled the earlier
Ausroc II class vehicles and will be used in the future Ausroc III class vehicles as well.
The Ausroc 2.5 Project finds its rationale in an axiom of aerospace engineering: “one should
never fit a new engine to a new plane”. New systems are more safely and reliably tested when
coupled with proven systems. In this respect, ASRI is using the proven Ausroc II launcher,
safety proofing, and airframe construction techniques as a base to prove the new Ausroc III
critical flight hardware. So, although the rocket looks like an Ausroc II class, its ‘inards’ are
largely Ausroc III class sub-systems.
In this way, certain Ausroc III class sub-systems and other hardware can be flight tested on a
proven base. Equally important is that the smaller vehicle and fuel capacity means that the tests
can be conducted at a much lower cost and risk than would be involved if a full scale Ausroc III
class vehicle was to be used.
A 3D computer model of the Ausroc 2.5 vehicle on the launcher.
Resources
The resources required to develop the Ausroc 2.5 vehicle are being contributed by ASRI,
government, industry (both local and international), academic institutions and the Australian
community generally. The resources already secured and those that are still required are detailed
in Part 2.
Management and quality assurance
Development work is being undertaken by work groups, supervised by a professional project
management hierarchy. The project effort is concentrated predominantly in Australia. However,
significant international collaboration, with organisations similar to ASRI, is in place at the subsystem
development level. Assessment of the integrity of designs and components is being
undertaken at three levels (design, systems engineering, and independent technical review),
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utilising experts drawn from industry and government. Details of the Program Management and
quality assurance processes appear in Part 3.
Systems development, manufacture and testing
Technical details of the vehicle systems, manufacture and testing processes are set out in Part 4.
Development of these systems has been in progress for several years, with substantial
involvement of government, industry and academic institutions throughout Australia and, in
some cases, internationally.
A number of flight components have already been manufactured or acquired. The first engine
test is scheduled for the end of 2006. We aim to have the first flight vehicle ready for launch in
October 2007.
Most of the development work undertaken to date has concentrated on analysis intensive aspects
such as design, evaluation and review. The project is now at a stage where significant support is
required for the manufacture and testing of major components.
Payloads
The payload for the prototype Ausroc 2.5 vehicle will mainly consist of additional
instrumentation to record the performance of the vehicle, including still and motion
photographic equipment. However, a separate payload module will be made available for
industry, university and/or school developed flight experiments.
Launch operations
The Woomera Rocket Range in South Australia is proposed as the site for launching the Ausroc
2.5 vehicle. The vehicle will utilize the existing Ausroc II class launch rail. The launch
campaign will be a significant undertaking and will include a comprehensive public relations
campaign to capitalise on the expected public and media interest. Further details of the
operational aspects of the Project are set out in Part 5.
Ausroc III
The Ausroc III class sub-orbital launch vehicle has been in design and development since 1990.
Our objectives in developing the vehicle include providing Australian scientists and engineers
with opportunities for development of skills and experience in key aerospace technologies,
including:
• Navigation, guidance and control;
• Liquid fuel propulsion;
• Composite structures and materials;
• Space qualified electronics;
• Payload integration;
• Range development and operation;
• Project management; and
• Systems engineering.
Cutaway of the Ausroc III class rocket motor
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WHAT THIS PROJECT OFFERS
The Vehicle
The Ausroc III class vehicle will be a liquid fuelled sounding rocket designed to launch a 150
kilogram payload module to an altitude of 500 kilometres on a sub-orbital trajectory. Unlike most
sounding rockets in commercial use today, the vehicle will incorporate active guidance which
means that its trajectory will be controllable during flight. The payload module will achieve
approximately 6 minutes of weightlessness before re-entry and recovery via a steerable gliding
parachute recovery system. These capabilities compare favourably with those of sounding rockets
in commercial use today.
Commercial application
The Ausroc III Program is primarily intended to advance education, technology and industry
development. However, the capability and hardware developed through the project may have
commercial application:
• As a technology, process and experience base.
The design of Ausroc III is similar to several proposed commercial light satellite launch
vehicles. This similarity is not coincidental. As satellite and hence launch vehicle weights
are reduced with advances in technology, lightweight pressure fed launch vehicles will
become increasingly competitive, at least in the small satellite end of the market. Capability
in this area may therefore be the key to future Australian participation in the provision of
light launch services. The Ausroc III Program is intended to forge Australian capability
through establishing a technology, process and experience base upon which future
commercial industry activity in this area may be built.
• As a sounding rocket.
The Ausroc III class vehicle will have performance similar to a number of sounding rockets
in current commercial use. However, it is expected to be less costly for a number of reasons,
including the extremely low development cost and the use of safe, low cost fuels. Further,
being liquid fuelled and actively guided, its performance and trajectory can be tailored to
the specific needs of users. The design may therefore be competitive in existing markets and
sufficiently low cost to open new markets. Pilot studies as to markets and further
development of Ausroc III for commercial use are to be undertaken as part of the Project.
In these respects the Ausroc III Program is path-finding potential commercially driven initiatives.
A full scale mockup of an Ausroc III class rocket outside ASRI’s Integration Facility in South Australia.
THE AUSROC 2.5 PROJECT 11

Ausroc IV
The Ausroc IV Program is
presently the final stage of the
Ausroc series. It is a proposed
micro-satellite orbital launch
vehicle to be constructed by
clustering four Ausroc III
class vehicles (as the first
stage) around a fifth vehicle
which forms the second stage.
The third stage is to be a solid
fuel rocket motor.
A significant amount of
design and other work for
Ausroc IV has been
undertaken since 1990 in
parallel with Ausroc III.
PART 2
WHAT THIS PROJECT OFFERS
A Wedgetail satellite injection motor.
In 1996 ASRI acquired a number of unfuelled Wedgetail third stage satellite launch vehicle
motors from overseas. These motors are ideally suited as the third stage of Ausroc IV or as the
second stage of a higher performance version of an Ausroc III class vehicle. Development of a
composite solid fuel propellant composition for the Wedgetail motors has been completed by
Adelaide University.
Ausroc IV baseline Configuration.
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WHAT THIS PROJECT OFFERS
WHAT THIS
PROJECT OFFERS
2.1 Reasons for supporting the Ausroc 2.5 Project
The Ausroc Program, and Ausroc 2.5 Project in particular, is an inspiring and exciting adventure.
It offers its supporters a unique opportunity to be part of a significant event in the history of
Australia. More particularly, the Project offers its supporters the potential benefits described in
the following paragraphs.
Gain access to future commercial opportunities
The Ausroc 2.5 vehicle, or the follow-on Ausroc III and IV class vehicles, may well have ultimate
commercial utility. If the vehicle, its derivatives, or any part of it shows sufficient potential, it
will be further developed for the commercial marketplace as part of a separate commercial
enterprise. Any development of this nature will represent an extraordinary opportunity for
supporters of the Project, and a significant threat to their competitors. Organisations that have
participated in the Project will be very well placed to secure contracts arising out of subsequent
commercial activity.
In any event, the Program involves representatives of many commercial organisations and is
therefore a good medium for networking and the broadening of business skills and perspectives.
ASRI presence at the 4th Australian Space Development Conference. The conference was a valuable
opportunity for business networking with politicians and key organisations.
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Improve your public reputation and tendering prospects
The importance of being a 'good corporate citizen' has long been appreciated in commerce and
industry. Measures undertaken in the broader community interest often assist commercial
enterprises to trade profitably by promoting a good public reputation and harmonious relations
with potentially disruptive groups.
Further, for sound political and commercial reasons both public and private sector entities, when
awarding contracts, tend to favour prospective suppliers that have a good public reputation.
Strong credentials in this respect are a valuable advantage in any competitive tender.
The Ausroc Program is well known throughout government, industry, academic institutions and
the community generally. The Program is often applauded by highly influential individuals within
government and industry for its achievements in providing high level education and fostering
technology and industry development.
Support of the Ausroc Program demonstrates commitment to objectives that compliment
government efforts and community interests. The Project represents an excellent opportunity for
commercial enterprises to promote a positive reputation whilst at the same time enhance their
prospects of successfully tendering for contracts.
An employee training tool
In many respects the Ausroc Program
represents a challenge to the Australian
scientific and engineering community. Many
of the technologies and systems involved
have never previously been employed by
Australians in an application of this nature or
at all.
The Program is on the cutting edge of
professional development. It represents an
excellent opportunity for organisations to
expand the skills, experience and capabilities
of their personnel in respects that may
ultimately be beneficial to the organisation’s
core business.
Develop commercially valuable
technology
Some areas of development being undertaken as part of the Ausroc Program may be of relevance
to the commercial activities or interests of a supporter. If so, arrangements may be made for
collaborative development of components, systems or materials to be undertaken for a supporter
at a ‘parts only’ cost. Since ASRI is an ‘Approved Research Institute’, it would also be possible to
structure support so as to attract a 100% tax deduction offered under the Income Tax Assessment
Act.
Use of payload space
Advanced training, particularly in hazardous
operations, is an important part of the Program.
The payload for the first Ausroc 2.5 vehicle will be an engineering package of flight recording
equipment and a number of scientific experiments. These may include experiments in
telecommunications, remote sensing and other satellite technology applications. However,
supporters may have their own experiments or developmental prototypes launched as part of the
payload. Although the risks associated with a prototype vehicle confine experiments to those that
involve low cost flight apparatus, the prototype Ausroc 2.5 represents a unique low cost
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WHAT THIS PROJECT OFFERS
opportunity for experiments to be undertaken or the performance of systems, components and/or
materials to be proven under real flight conditions.
Use media coverage for advertising and promotion
Media interest in the Ausroc II series of launches was intense. Well over an hour of prime time
television coverage was secured during the 1995 launch campaign alone. The launch was
transmitted via satellite live throughout Australia in the morning. All evening news services and
current affairs programs featured the launch as a headline item. Most outlets also presented
comprehensive lead stories covering the development and pre-launch activities. In addition,
substantial coverage was secured nationally on radio and in the print media, and internationally
through a British produced documentary.
The substantial media contingent at Woomera during the Ausroc II-2 launch campaign.
Continued interest at this level may be relied upon. However, the launch of Ausroc 2.5 will be
more significant and impressive than Ausroc II-2. It is therefore expected to attract more national
and international media coverage, particularly in scientific publications.
ASRI is therefore able to offer Program supporters opportunities to widely promote product
names and marks through:
• Naming rights - An organisation or product name as a prefix to the name of the vehicle
would ensure significant coverage, particularly in the radio and print media.
• Vehicle display - Product and organisation names placed on the vehicle will gain substantial
coverage. This can be done on a retouched basis after the event, if required.
• Support structures - The launch pad and support structures may represent a more suitable
format for the promotional material of some supporters.
• Launch personnel - The attire of key personnel represents a good opportunity for publicity
through television and illustrated print articles.
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• Pre-launch events - Media attention during Project milestones, particularly the test firing of
engines, represents an excellent opportunity for promotion through appropriately placed
material.
• Materials - Images derived from the Project may be used in supporter generated marketing
initiatives.
Of course, the availability of promotional opportunities will depend upon technical considerations
and the level of demand. Supporters wishing to capitalise on publicity opportunities will also
have to be comfortable with their position in the event of a visible failure, although measures can
be employed to minimise or eliminate that risk (for example, advertising that is undertaken on a
success-only basis and exclusion of live media coverage).
Enhance your academic profile
The Ausroc Program has close ties to tertiary institutions. A significant amount of the design,
analysis and construction is being undertaken by tertiary students supervised by academic staff
and suitably qualified professionals. The major educational institutions that have been involved in
the Program to date are set out in the table appearing below.
Major Academic Institutions Involved
Adelaide University
Queensland University of Technology
Sydney University
University of Queensland
University of Southern Queensland
Monash University
Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology
University of New South Wales
University of South Australia
University of Technology, Sydney
Supporters of the Ausroc Program contribute to the education of the next generation of
professionals. At the same time, they establish a profile within tertiary institutions that is
beneficial in recruitment. Good recruitment is at the heart of good business, particularly when an
employer's product is or relies upon professional services.
The Program also represents an excellent opportunity for industry to develop profile with
academics and students engaged in advanced research and hence access to new opportunities.
Academic institutions themselves benefit from enhanced international profile.
Promote industry development
An objective of the Ausroc Program is to improve indigenous capability and confidence in an
effort to reduce the self doubt, high start up costs and long lead times that are at the core of
Australia’s current low level of activity in space related pursuits. Addressing these issues will
enhance the prospects of industry and/or government initiatives being successfully implemented.
Our objective is to promote industry development through evolution of a more capable domestic
fabric rather than by revolution; metaphorically learning to walk before trying to run.
Support of the Program represents an investment in the future. Supporters demonstrate the
relevance, suitability and reliability of their products in space and high technology applications.
At the same time, they establish themselves within an emerging network of individuals and
organisations with both capability and proven commitment in this field. Supporters will therefore
be well placed to secure a role in future commercially driven initiatives.
Help establish methods of low cost development
Many market opportunities are not commercially exploited because the up front research and
development cost is too high for the anticipated return. Alternatively, the path ahead may be too
uncertain for industry to be interested. New methods of completing product research and
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WHAT THIS PROJECT OFFERS
development at very low cost may therefore open the door to commercial opportunities that
would not otherwise be viable or explored at all.
The Ausroc Program demonstrates an innovative research and development technique. Through
close liaison with academic institutions and clever harnessing of under utilised, surplus or
otherwise wasted resources, the Program is developing a high technology product at remarkably
low cost where the development cost would otherwise be prohibitive. By advancing to a better
technological position at minimal cost, the prospect of observing and being able to action future
commercial opportunities as they arise is enhanced.
The methods being established are of benefit throughout industry wherever a pathfinding or
scouting initiative of this type may reveal commercially exploitable opportunities.
National interest
Many past supporters have offered their assistance for benevolent or nationalistic reasons,
recognising that the Program promotes:
• Industrial and hence national strength;
• Production of high value added export and import competing goods and services;
• Inspiration in education, improved career opportunities and reduced emigration of highly
skilled individuals; and
• Other intangible benefits such as improved national pride and international status.
2.2 Existing resources
Although ASRI has relatively little income and few tangible assets of its own, it has the ability to
direct substantial donated, borrowed and volunteered resources toward its programs and the
attainment of its goals. Perhaps the most significant of these resources is the professional time
available to ASRI on a volunteer basis, the value of which will exceed $1,000,000 in the
development of Ausroc 2.5 alone.
However, for the Project to be completed within a time frame that will maximise its real value to
Australia, a significant amount of additional support is needed. The support required, as at May
2006, is illustrated in the diagram below. Significantly, almost half of the necessary resources
have been secured and the balance has been underwritten. This means that the Project is “Go” – it
will happen.
Completed
20%
Secured
25%
Needed
55%
Resources required for development of the Ausroc 2.5 Project.
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2.3 What kind of additional resources are needed?
Resources of high value to the Project may be of low real value to the supporter because, for
example, they may be beyond shelf life, redundant or otherwise unlikely to be sold or used.
Temporarily idle equipment or facilities may be provided on loan at little or no effective cost to
the supporter. Personnel who are less than fully utilised or who are in need of training may also
assist at little real cost. The Project represents a good opportunity to put under utilised or surplus
materials, facilities and other resources to good use.
Of course, any goods and services supplied on a voluntary or donated basis are accepted by us as
they are with all faults and defects, if any. Accordingly, supporters need not be concerned by any
product or professional liability issues arising from such support.
Although by no means comprehensive, the following sections give examples of the types of
resources which would be of particular value in advancing the Project.
Cash donations
Cash donations enable ASRI to acquire components and services that are not able to be secured
on a cost free basis. Cash donations are highly valued because they permit bottle-necks in the
advancement of the Project to be quickly overcome. ASRI is an Approved Research Institute
under federal taxation legislation, so donations over $2.00 are tax deductible.
Materials and equipment
Examples of Materials and Equipment Needed
Ablative materials General tools & hardware Protective packaging
Communication equipment Hydraulic equipment Resins and solvents
Composite materials Hydrocarbon products Safety signs and equipment
Compressed gasses Nonferrous / ferrous metals Tanks, pumps, pipes etc.
Computer equipment Liquid oxygen Testing structures
Electronic components Paints / finishing products Transport equipment
Firefighting equipment Protective clothing Valves and control systems
Services and facilities
Examples of Services and Facilities Needed
Accounts and finance Environmental testing facilities Office premises/facilities
Administration Freight and personnel transport Quality engineering
Advertising space Heavy engineering equipment Radio wirers
Aeronautical engineering Insurance RF engineering
Catering and logistics Logistics Safety analysis
Clean room facilities Machining workshops Storage
Communications Mechanical engineering Systems engineering
Digital engineering Mechanical trades-people Technical assessment
Electronics assembly Media services Welders
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2.4 Be part of history in the making - become involved
Leaving aside from the commercial benefits that may flow from the Program in the future, it
represents a unique opportunity to participate in what will be recorded as a significant event in the
history of Australia. For those interested in the development of a space industry in our country,
the Program will stand as a true and memorable adventure.
There are compelling reasons for supporting this Program. Even minor or occasional support of
little real burden to you or your organisation may be of tremendous assistance in the advancement
of the Program, and it may secure future advantages.
If you would like to become involved or to learn more about the Ausroc Program, please
photocopy or tear out the ‘Expression of Interest’ form at the end of this document, complete it
and send it to us, or simply forward the information to us via email. Your response will be taken
as an obligation free expression of interest only.
Achieve Something
In life you have two choices – you can be someone, or you can do something. The two tend to be
mutually exclusive. This concept is of John Boyd, per his biographer Robert Coram. Boyd was
instrumental in modern jet fighter design and an architect of the military strategy used in the Gulf
Wars.
For many that come to read this publication, you will have spent much of your life working
towards being someone. This program represents an opportunity to become involved in achieving
something. An achievement that your kids and contemporaries will respect you for now, and in
retirement you will reflect on without regret.
THE AUSROC 2.5 PROJECT 19

PART 3
PROJECT MANAGEMENT
PROJECT
MANAGEMENT
3.1 The management structure
Effective project management is an important part of any engineering project. Management of the
Ausroc 2.5 Project is undertaken by ASRI and extends to supervising work undertaken by a large
number of Australian universities, companies, government bodies and individuals, as well as a
number of international partners.
The function of the project management structure is to coordinate and support the separate
integrated product teams that are responsible for the development of the major subsystems. Each
integrated product team is managed by a team leader, who is primarily responsible for:
• Management of the integrated product team;
• Identification and securing of resources required for the subsystem (including personnel);
• Development of the relevant subsystem; and
• Reporting to the Project Manager and liaison with other team leaders.
ASRI Executive
Project Manager
Systems Engineer
Configuration
Manager
Propulsion Team
Leader
Avionics Team
Leader
Payload Team
Leader
Ground Segment
Team Leader
Structures Team
Leader
Recovery Team
Leader
Ops. Segment
Team Leader
Integrated Product Team Personnel and International Partners
Ausroc 2.5 Project management structure.
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PROJECT MANAGEMENT
An important feature of the management structure is that it requires motivation and effort on the
part of technical personnel to secure the resources they need. To minimise inefficiencies through
overlap or unnecessary distraction from technical matters, the resource requirements of
integrated product teams are directed at first instance to the Program Manager and ASRI
executive. To the extent that the team leaders are unable to secure the resources they need by
that means, they must generate their own initiatives or ‘engineer’ around the difficulty. This
structure encourages technical personnel to learn valuable business skills. It also encourages
innovative and cost effective engineering.
The personnel directly involved in the management of the Project are set out in the following
table:
Program Management Personnel
Project Manager
Systems Engineer
Propulsion Team Leader
Structures Team Leader
Avionics Team Leader
Recovery Team Leader
Payload Team Leader
Ground Segment Team Leader
Operations Segment Team Leader
Configuration Manager
John August BS (Phys)
Mark Blair BE (Mech.), MIEAust
Mark Blair BE (Mech.), MIEAust
Ian Bryce BE(Elec.), BS (Phys)
Bernard Davison BS
Belo Ferreira BE(Aero.)
(tba)
Mark Blair BE (Mech.), MIEAust
Gary Luckman BS
Ivan Vuletich BE(Mech.)
In addition, drawn down from the ASRI Executive are the specialist services necessary to flight
a project of this dimension. This includes legal, insurance, and public relations services.
3.2 ASRI technical review and audit
The ASRI technical review and audit has been introduced to ensure that the more sophisticated
projects undertaken by ASRI are subject to a sufficiently high level and independent technical
review. This formal review process, part of the ASRI systems engineering process, has not been
a requirement in the past, as the function has been carried out on an informal basis by ASRI
members and selected members from the research committee. However, the complexity and
safety issues inherent with a vehicle of the size and capability of Ausroc 2.5 require that its
development be the subject of regular review.
The technical reviews and audits will draw on the extensive knowledge of appropriate industry,
government and academic experts to provide feedback on design, manufacturing, assembly, test
and operational aspect of the Project.
3.3 Quality management and documentation
The Ausroc 2.5 Project is being undertaken in compliance with ASRI’s Project Management
and Systems Engineering processes (refer ASRI web site). These processes follow industry
standard ‘best practices’ and allow for a ‘top down’ hierarchical design and development effort.
All official Project documentation is kept on the Ausroc 2.5 Project ‘Virtual Project Office’
(VPO) on the ASRI server. This allows easy and secure access for all project participants, from
anywhere in the world, to the most current design and analysis information via electronic
document exchange. The project management is further enhanced with email list support,
‘voice-over-the-internet’ (VOIP) telecon facilitation, and regular Project meetings.
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PART 3
3.4 Public relations
PROJECT MANAGEMENT
Few human events capture as much public attention and imagination as a rocket launch.
Commercial media organisations, hungry for ratings and well tuned to the interests of the
public, closely follow rocket programs for this reason. As the Ausroc 2.5 Project relies on the
support of the public in one form or another for its advancement, it is important that public and
media interest be encouraged and properly managed.
An active and comprehensive public relations campaign is therefore to be undertaken as an
integral part of the Ausroc 2.5 Project. The campaign has been formulated drawing upon the
valuable experience gained during the development and launch of Ausroc II-2.
Fundamentally, the public relations campaign is designed to:
• Enhance the exposure of the Project to the public by actively promoting media coverage;
• Maximise positive presentation of the Project; and
• Minimise negative presentation of the Project.
The ASRI Communications Manager will be primarily responsible for implementation of the
public relations campaign nationally.
3.5 Legal Issues
The ASRI Legal Affairs Manager will be responsible for legal issues such as:
• Arranging suitable insurance and/or disclaimers for a number of aspects of the Project, most
notably the launch.
• Documenting arrangements with range authorities, subcontractors, supporters and other third
parties.
• Compliance with laws regulating the possession, transport and use of hazardous materials.
It will also be necessary to ensure compliance with international obligations such as the Missile
Technology Control Regime (MTCR), which is an international convention intended to avoid
the proliferation of technologies that could be used to deliver weapons of mass destruction.
Although Ausroc 2.5 is being developed purely as a scientific rocket, some of its sub-systems
fall within the scope of the MTCR legislation. Approval will be required with respect to any
foreign requests for detailed information.
3.6 Schedule
A condensed schedule for the Project is set out on the following pages. It shows the anticipated
dates for completion of the key sub-systems and functions prior to the proposed launch in
October 2007. Major milestones include the various reviews, tests and obviously the launch of
the prototype vehicle. The schedule has been developed based upon the expected availability of
resources.
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PART 3
PROJECT MANAGEMENT
3.7 Project Financial Report
The estimated cost to complete the Ausroc 2.5 Project is indicated in the following table:
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This financial report is drawn from the Ausroc 2.5 Configuration Database financial form page
as of the date indicated. The database is regularly updated with the latest Project development
information.
It is important to note that there is no Project team labour component to this financial report. It
contains only the estimated cash cost of acquisition of hardware items, manufacturing support,
consumables, insurance, and real operational expenses. These are the “hard” costs that cannot be
avoided by ASRI drawing on its established resource network.
As a measure of actual Project costs, approximately $300,000 has already been expended, in
donated professional time, by the Ausroc 2.5 Project participants in the design and analysis
phase of the Project. The value of this time will exceed $1,000,000 by project completion.
3.8 Resource and finance initiatives
Completion of the Project will obviously require a significant amount of effort to secure the
necessary resources. ASRI has planned a number of initiatives directed at raising the resources
and funds necessary for the project to advance. These initiatives include:
• Developing better public understanding of the objectives of this Project and the Ausroc
Program generally;
• Attracting greater professional support and involvement;
• Approaches to industry and government;
• Utilising educational resources;
• Innovative arrangements to secure resources by, for example, loan or use of equipment
during downtime or training; and
• Adaptation of the project and its products to potential commercial opportunities.
This publication is an important part of the planned initiatives. By reducing the amount of time
required to explain to interested parties what the Ausroc 2.5 Project is all about, it enables more
efficient use of the professional time made available by key personnel.
Why ASRI Needs Your Support
Ausroc 2.5 is a stepping stone to full scale Ausroc III class vehicles. These are big, expensive
rockets. To proceed, it is essential that ASRI builds the commercial relationships necessary to
generate the necessary funding and other support. Whilst the cash requirements for Ausroc 2.5
have been underwritten, ASRI must ‘fledge’ from this support to retain the goodwill and
support of the underwriters for the next generation of full scale Ausroc III class vehicles
THE AUSROC 2.5 PROGRAM 27

PART 4
SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT
SYSTEMS
DEVELOPMENT
4.1 Mission Objectives
The primary mission of the Ausroc 2.5 System shall be to launch a rocket with a 10kg
payload to an altitude of at least 20km on a ballistic trajectory and recover the vehicle
intact.
In addition to the primary mission stated above, the AUSROC 2.5 Project has the following
additional objectives:
• The Ausroc 2.5 Project shall provide a flight test bed, and ground test fixtures to
support elements of the Ausroc 3 Project.
• The Ausroc 2.5 Project shall further develop ASRI's capability to design, manufacture,
test & launch liquid propellant rocket systems.
• The Ausroc 2.5 Project shall catalyse interest and resources, which might be brought to
bear on the Ausroc 3 Program.
The Ausroc 2.5 vehicle is to be designed to meet the mission objectives with the following
reliability parameters:
• A launch probability of success of 90 percent;
• A probability of reaching 20 km or greater of 80 percent and
• A recovery probability of success of 70 percent.
The Ausroc 2.5 Project advances the technology base developed by ASRI in earlier Ausroc
Projects. The objective is to develop and further advance indigenous capability in certain key
launch vehicle technologies and operations. A foundation of proven capability and experience in
these areas is essential if Australia is to participate in space programs and initiatives in the
future. The systems development that has been undertaken for the Ausroc 2.5 Project reflects
this underlying objective.
4.2 Systems design philosophy
The systems design philosophy is to produce a cost effective sub-orbital launch vehicle
employing a number of technologies essential for the later development of a satellite launch
vehicle. To achieve this in a timely manner, reduced performance and increased mission risk are
accepted. Low cost commercial-off-the-shelf components or assemblies will be used wherever
possible. An important feature of the design philosophy is the emphasis placed on validated
simulation to define system parameters and requirements.
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4.3 System Specification
SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT
The functional, physical, design and test requirements for the Ausroc 2.5 system are detailed in
the Ausroc 2.5 System Requirements Specification (SRS) document. This is the top level
defining document for the system. It is divided into system, subsystem, and unit level
requirements, and also contains the system level quality assurance, test, verification, and
environmental requirements.
4.4 Systems design
Much of the preliminary design work has been completed by Project engineers and engineering
students under the supervision of the Ausroc 2.5 team members and university staff.
ASRI has initiated, supported and supervised over 100 undergraduate engineering student
projects in the launch vehicle and satellite technology fields since 1989.
Student designs that are sufficiently mature and worthy are reviewed and included in the system
design by the appropriate Ausroc 2.5 team leaders. A significant amount of design work is also
undertaken by suitably qualified ASRI personnel, many of whom are professionally employed
in the aerospace industry. Although not comprehensive, the condensed project documentation
list set out below gives some insight into the extent of professional work undertaken for the
Ausroc 2.5 Project to date:
Condensed Ausroc 2.5 Project Documentation List
Ausroc 2.5 Operational Concept Document – (ASRI-A25-M-OCD)
Ausroc 2.5 Project Proposal – (ASRI-A25-M-PPR)
Ausroc 2.5 Project Schedule – (ASRI-A25-M-Schedule)
Ausroc 2.5 System Requirements Specification – (ASRI-A25-E-SRS)
Ausroc 2.5 Configuration Item List – (ASRI-A25-E-CIL)
Ausroc 2.5 Configuration Drawing Set
Ausroc 2.5 Aerodynamic Analysis – (ASRI-A25-E-Aero-Loads-Analysis)
Ausroc 2.5 Trajectory Analysis – (ASRI-A25-E-Trajectory-Analysis)
Ausroc 2.5 Propulsion Sub-System Analysis – (ASRI-A25-E-Propulsion-Analysis)
Ausroc 2.5 Structures Sub-System Analysis – (ASRI-A25-E-Structures-Analysis)
Ausroc 2.5 Avionics Sub-System Analysis – (ASRI-A25-E-Avionics-Analysis)
Ausroc 2.5 Recovery Sub-System Analysis – (ASRI-A25-E-Recovery-Analysis)
Ausroc 2.5 Ground Segment Analysis – (ASRI-A25-E-Ground-Analysis)
Ausroc 2.5 Design Specifications – (ASRI-A25-E-DS-FX.X.XX.XX) - numerous
Ausroc 2.5 Safety and Operations Plan – (ASRI-A25-E-SOP)
Ausroc2.5 Post Trial Report – (ASRI-A25-M-PTR)
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PART 4
SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT
4.5 Systems test and evaluation philosophy
The design, construction and operation of a vehicle of the Ausroc 2.5 type has never previously
been attempted in Australia and is a considerable challenge in any event. It follows that an
appropriate test and evaluation process is essential to ensure the safety and ultimate success of
the Project.
The test and evaluation process will place emphasis on the acceptance testing of each individual
unit, sub-system, and ultimately the system. A comprehensive requirements verification process
will be conducted to ensure compliance to the system requirements.
4.6 Ausroc 2.5 System
The Ausroc 2.5 System is divided into 3 ‘Segments’ – Flight, Ground and Operations. The
interdependencies between these 3 segments and the ‘outside world’ are shown in the diagram
below:
F1 FLIGHT SEGMENT
1. Launch Rail
7. Umbilical
6. Ignition Signal
2. Oxidiser fuelling line
3. Fuel fuelling line
4. Pressurant fuelling line
5. Purge line
11. Hold-Down Cable
9. Access Hatches
10. Ignition Detect
8. Telemetry Transmitter
F2 GROUND SEGMENT
F3 SAFETY & OPERATIONS SEGMENT
physical
procedural
Electrical / paper / other
fuel / oxidiser / gases
chemical / mechanical /
l t ti
physical
physical
12. RANGE FACILITIES / SERVICES
13. RANGE AUTHORITIES
14. DATA (flight performance, video, etc)
15. PROPELLANTS / CONSUMABLES
16. ENVIRONMENT
17. TRANSPORTATION
18. DISPOSAL
Ausroc 2.5 ‘top-level’ System breakdown
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SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT
4.7 Flight Segment
The flight segment is the part of the project that is concerned with the development of the flight
systems that make up the Ausroc 2.5 launch vehicle. The proposed configuration for the
complete vehicle is shown in the diagram appearing on the next page.
The distinct sub-systems that make up the flight segment are ‘propulsion’, ‘structures’,
‘avionics’, ‘recovery’ and ‘payload’. The mass budget for the Flight Segment is shown in the
table below:
Vehicle characteristics
Nominal diameter 0.30m
Body length 7.5m
Vehicle dry weight
Propellant weight
Weight excl. payload
All up weight
242 kg
196 kg
428 kg
438 kg
Mass ratio 0.458
The following sections briefly describe each of these sub-systems.
4.7.1 Propulsion sub-system
The mission of the AUSROC 2.5 Propulsion Sub-System shall be to provide the
propulsive force required to meet the mission objective
Given this requirement, a liquid propulsion system was selected because:
• Liquid fuels are typically more energetic and hence relevant to satellite launch vehicles;
• Liquid fuels are cheaper than their solid fuel equivalents;
• The mixing, storing and transport of solid propellant is a hazardous operation that requires
strict process control and safety supervision; and
• Liquid fuelled rockets are safer because the propellants are only loaded into the vehicle at the
launch site.
A bi-propellant combination of liquid oxygen, as the oxidizer, and kerosene, as the fuel, was
selected for the following reasons:
• The combination has relatively good performance;
• There is an abundance of experience and literature on the combination;
• The components are non toxic, non corrosive, stable and the combustion products are
environmentally friendly;
• The components are cheap and readily available in Australia.
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PART 4
SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT
Pitot Tube
Nose Cone Unit
Separation Ring Unit
Main Parachute Compartment
Avionics Compartment
Upper Fairing Unit
Tridyne Tank
Launch Lug #1 Location
Pressurisation Compartment
LOX Tank Unit
Intertank Fairing Unit
Kerosene Tank Unit
Lower Valve Fairing Unit
Launch Lug #2 Location
Thrust Mount & Injector Units
Rocket Engine
Tri-Fin Unit (enclosing engine)
Ausroc 2.5 Flight Segment Diagram
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Rocket Motor
Due to the complexities and cost
Ausroc 2.5 motor characteristics
associated with turbo-pump propellant
delivery systems, Ausroc 2.5 will utilise
a pressure feed system to deliver the
propellants to the combustion chamber.
The propellant tanks must therefore
operate at pressures in excess of the
Combustion pressure
Mixture ratio
Specific impulse
Thrust
2 MPa
2.4 (Ox/F)
240 sec. (Sea Level)
35kN (Sea Level)
chamber pressure. Although high Nozzle throat diameter 130 mm
chamber pressures generate a higher
specific impulse, they also require
heavier propellant tanks to withstand the
higher delivery pressures. A combustion
pressure of 2MPa was chosen as a
compromise between tank weight and
specific impulse.
Nozzle exit diameter
Nozzle expansion ratio
Chamber diameter
260 mm
4 (Ae/At)
230 mm
Optimal nozzle exit velocity (and hence thrust) is achieved if the exhaust gasses are expanded to
the external atmospheric pressure. Since the Ausroc 2.5 rocket motor will operate,
predominantly, in the lower atmosphere, a sea level optimized nozzle has been selected. This
also simplifies the static testing of the rocket motor.
Four cooling techniques were considered for the Ausroc 2.5 motor. These were regenerative,
ablative, radiation and film.
Regenerative cooling involves the circulation of one of the propellants through passages along
the motor wall to absorb the heat transferred from the chamber.
Ablative motors use endothermic materials which decompose and absorb large amounts of heat
in the process. Ablative cooling is most commonly used in smaller motors that are not required
to burn for long periods because ablative materials are heavy.
Radiation cooling relies on the motor wall reaching thermal equilibrium with its surroundings.
This requires the use of rare, therefore expensive, high temperature refractory metals and
ceramics.
Film cooling can be used in conjunction with any of the cooling techniques referred to above. It
involves injecting a coolant fluid along the motor wall to generate a ‘cool’ gas boundary layer
and reduce the rate of heat transferred to the wall.
For both simplicity and cost reasons, Ausroc 2.5 will use an ablative motor design, using a tape
wrapped silica phenolic ablative liner, in conjunction with a filament wound structural shell and
an aluminium flange ring.
Injector
The injector attaches to the forward end of the motor. Its function is to introduce and meter the
propellants into the combustion chamber. It also atomises and mixes the propellants to enhance
combustion efficiency. The injector configuration being utilised for Ausroc 2.5 is a flat-face
impinging-stream type. It has 96 ‘doublet’ injection elements – one liquid oxygen and one
kerosene stream per injection element.
To assist in chamber wall cooling, a ring of 48 film cooling ‘doublet’ injectors will be located
around the periphery of the injector face. This will generate a cooler fuel rich zone along the
inside wall of the motor.
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PART 4
SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT
Propellant utilisation system
The Ausroc 2.5 vehicle will use a
Ausroc 2.5 pressurisation characteristics
pressure feed system, meaning that
the fuel and oxidiser will be forced
into the combustion chamber by high
pressure gas. A ‘Tridyne’ hot gas
system has been chosen to pressurise
the propellant tanks. The Swiss
Propulsion Laboratory (SPL), one of
the international project partners, has
Helium tank volume/pressure
LOX tank volume/pressure
Kerosene tank volume/pressure
Propellant mass flow rate
26lt / 25MPa
130lt / 3MPa
79lt / 3MPa
15kg/s
lead responsibility for the development, test and integration of this innovative pressurisation
system, based on their expertise in this field.
The tridyne gas is primarily helium with small quantities of hydrogen and oxygen which react
when the mixture is passed over a catalyst bed. The heat given off from the reaction increases
the temperature of the helium and improves the performance of the system. However, cheaper
nitrogen gas will be used for the majority of ground tests.
The volume of the flight
tridyne storage tank is 26
litres. The tridyne will be
stored at high pressure
(25MPa). The pressure
will then be regulated
down to maintain the
liquid oxygen and
kerosene tanks at a
pressure of 3MPa. The
tridyne tank is a carbon
fiber filament wound
pressure vessel
The propellant utilisation system will maintain the mixture of the propellants at the optimal ratio
of 2.4 for most of the burn time. However, the system will automatically adjust the mixture ratio
in the later stages of the burn to ensure that both propellants are exhausted simultaneously. This
will result in an increase in an effective increase in performance.
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4.7.2 Structures
The mission of the AUSROC 2.5 Structures Sub-System shall be to provide the tankage,
fairings, mounting provisions, internal access and aerodynamic configuration required
to meet the AUSROC 2.5 mission objective
The Ausroc 2.5 vehicle consists of nine (9) major structural items. Those items are set out in the
following table.
Item
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
Ausroc 2.5 Structures
Sub-System
Nose Cone Unit
Nose Separation Unit
Upper Fairing Unit
Lox Tank Unit
Intertank Fairing Unit
Kerosene Tank Unit
Valve Fairing Unit
Nose cone
The nose cone is a tangent-ogive with a length to diameter
ratio of 3. It is to be manufactured from glass fibre
composites and will incorporate ablative materials to
protect it from the high temperatures that will be
generated by aerodynamic heating. At apogee, the nose
cone will be jettisoned to allow the deployment of the
recovery parachutes.
Fairings
The fairings are to be manufactured from 6061-T6
aluminium tube. Each fairing will contain two flush
mounted hatches for access and assembly purposes. All
8 Thrust Mount Unit the cylindrical fairings are to be manufactured with
common tooling and all the structural item interfaces will
9 Fin Unit
be identical.
Propellant Tanks
The liquid oxygen and kerosene propellant tanks will be manufactured from 6061-T6
aluminium components welded together and heat treated for optimal strength.
Thrust Mount
The thrust mount unit will be manufactured from 6061-T6 aluminuim. It will provide
interfacing and mounting provisions for the propellant valving, valve fairing, engine and fin
unit.
Fin Unit
The fin unit is comprised of a 6061-T6 aluminium body tube segment with 3 fins, manufactured
from 7075-T6 aluminium, secured at 120 degree intervals
4.7.3 Avionics
The mission of the AUSROC 2.5 Avionics Sub-System shall be to provide the monitoring,
control and telemetry required to perform the AUSROC 2.5 mission and support the
propulsion, structures and recovery sub-systems.
The Ausroc 2.5 avionics sub-system will be comprised of eleven (11) basic functional units as
listed in the following table.
Flight Computer & Controllers
The flight computer will monitor system status via the system sensors, process the sensor data,
schedule events based on the processed sensor data, store the sensor data and send sensor data to
the transmitter.
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Item Ausroc 2.5 Avionics Sub-System The flight computer will also contain the software
to control the propellant valves, via their
1 Flight Computer Unit controller circuits, and the recovery deployment
functions.
2 Battery Unit
3
4
5
6
7
8
Power Control & Distribution Units
Umbilical Connector Unit
Sensor Units
Sensor Node Units
Video Camera Unit
GPS Unit
Power Units
The vehicle will be powered by high energy
density ‘Lithium Polymer’ (LiPo) cells. A variety
of system voltages and currents will be drawn
from the battery via the power control and
distribution units.
Umbilical
9 Transmitter Unit
The umbilical connection allows the vehicle to
communicate with the ground segment via
10 Valve Controller Units
hardline. It also allows for remote charging of the
11 Structural Assembly Unit battery.
Sensor, Video & GPS Units
The sensors are the key element of the engineering payload to be carried aboard the vehicle
during flight. These sensors include thermocouples, strain gages, pressure transducers,
accelerometers, video data, global positioning system (GPS) data, propellant valve positions,
mechanism activations, and computer status. The data from these sensors will be ‘post-flight’
processed to provide detailed insight into the performance of the Flight Segment.
Transmitter
The transmitter unit will transmit a steady stream of video and telemetry sensor data to ground
receivers during flight to protect against loss of flight data in the event of a recovery sub-system
failure.
4.7.4 Recovery
The mission of the AUSROC 2.5 Recovery Sub-System shall be to ensure that all
components (minus consumables) of the flight vehicle are returned to the ground in a
condition to be reused, with only minor re-work, on later flights.
The Ausroc 2.5 recovery sub-system is comprised of
ten (16) basic functional units. The more significant
of these units are shown in the table.
This sub-system provides a 2 stage (drogue/main)
recovery of the flight vehicle and a single stage
(drogue) recovery of the nose cone.
The sub-system is designed to allow the vehicle to be
recovered at dynamic pressures (Q) up to 4500 Pa –
subject, of course, to the thermal heating constraints
imposed during supersonic operation.
The figure below shows the baseline Rocket Drogue
deployment operational environment.
The nominal operational scenario has the nose cone
being ejected at apogee and descending to the ground
under its own drogue parachute. The rocket will
decelerate under its own drogue parachute to a pre-
Item
Ausroc 2.5 Recovery Sub-
System
1 Nose Support Structure
2 Nose Drogue
3 Drogue Bag
4 Rocket Drogue
5 Drogue Shock Cords
6 Pyrotechnic Pin Pullers
7 Rocket Main Parachute
8 Main Parachute Mounts
9 Main Parachute Bag
10 Main Parachute Canister
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determined altitude, and hence velocity, at which point the main canopy will be deployed to
bring the rocket to the ground with an impact velocity of approximately 8m/s.
1200
1000
Vehicle Structural Failure Zone - Ultimate Load Exceeded (Q>4518 Pa)
800
Velocity (m/s)
600
Factor of Safety Zone (2259

PART 4
SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT
Launcher Sub-System
The mission of the Launcher Sub-System shall be to enable the flight vehicle to be supported,
protected and serviced in a safe and accessible manner and allow for the smooth and reliable
release of the flight vehicle when appropriate conditions have been reached.
Propellant Loading Sub-System
The mission of the Propellant Loading Sub-System shall be to enable the safe, timely and
convenient loading and draining of the oxidizer, fuel and tridyne tanks.
Purge Sub-System
The mission of the Purge Sub-System shall be to enable the safe, timely and convenient purging
of the Tridyne and propellant systems within the flight vehicle with dry helium and nitrogen gas
respectively.
Fire Control Sub-System
The mission of the Fire Control Sub-System shall be to monitor and control the flight vehicle
countdown & ignition sequence, whilst on the ground, and initiate events leading up to the
release of the flight vehicle from the launcher.
Electrical Umbilical Sub-System
The mission of the Electrical Umbilical Sub-System shall be to ensure that ground hard-line
power, command and telemetry capability is available up to the point of launch and then allow
for smooth disconnection and clearance.
Telemetry Sub-System
The mission of the Telemetry Sub-System shall be to ensure that telemetry data can be received,
during launch and all flight phases, as well as collected stored, processed and plotted as
required.
4.8.2 Range facilities
The Woomera rocket range in South Australia has been selected as the preferred site for the
Ausroc 2.5 trials for a number of reasons, most importantly because it already has most of the
infrastructure that will be required. There are a number of launch areas that have not been used
for many years and have no other use in the foreseeable future. In particular, Launch Area 9
(LA-9) is considered to be well suited as it has the Ausroc II launcher, a blockhouse for
protection of launch pad personnel, an observation/camera tower and established utilities such
as telephone and power. Part 5 of this document provides more detail on the range facilities.
4.8.3 Assembly, integration and test facilities
The Ausroc 2.5 Project will utilize general workshop facilities available at the Universities
involved in the project for the assembly and integration of the Ausroc 2.5 vehicle and support
equipment. Additional general workshop facilities will be sought from industrial participants as
required.
The Ausroc 2.5 vehicle will be put through a comprehensive test program, prior to flight, to
ensure that the system can adequately handle the worst case environmental conditions imposed
upon it during its’ life cycle. These environments include:
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SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT
# Environment
1. Altitude & Range
2. Velocity (Mach Number)
3. Acceleration
4. Dynamic Pressure
5. Atmospheric Pressure
6. Atmospheric Density
7. Thrust Force
8. Thermal
9. Tank / Engine / Plumbing Pressures
10. Vibration
11. Acoustic
12. Shock (pyrotechnic / recovery etc.)
13. Wind
14. Humidity
15. Dust / Particulates
16. Precipitation
17. Radiation (EMI / EMC)
To the extent that ASRI and the Universities do not have the equipment, or facilities, required to
perform these environmental tests, support will be sought from Government and Industry.
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PART 5
LAUNCH OPERATIONS
LAUNCH
OPERATIONS
5.1 Overview
The Ausroc 2.5 vehicle is designed to launch a 10kg payload to an altitude of approximately 20
kilometres. This performance, coupled with the safety issues inherent with launch vehicles,
means that strict range safety procedures and adequate support infrastructure will be required
for the launch. The Woomera rocket range in South Australia is presently the only range in
Australia suitable for launching the Ausroc 2.5 vehicle. It is also the site of ASRI’s current
Small Sounding Rocket Program (SSRP) launches and the site used for the previous Ausroc II-1
and Ausroc II-2 launches. For these reasons Woomera has been selected as the preferred launch
site.
Although range safety issues are paramount, a significant number of other operational matters
need to be addressed including transportation, logistics, ground support equipment (GSE),
operational procedures and personnel management. This section identifies some of the more
significant issues associated with the preparation and launch of the Ausroc 2.5 vehicle from the
Woomera Range.
5.2 Range facilities
The Woomera Range consists of the Woomera Prohibited Area (WPA) and the Woomera
Instrumented Range (WIR).
The Rangehead Area within the Woomera Instrumented Range.
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The WPA is about 130,000 square kilometres in area. The WIR is an area of approximately 40
kilometres x 50 kilometres in the south east corner of the WPA and is currently instrumented for
RAAF trials. The Rangehead lies within the WIR. It is security fenced and contains most of the
range infrastructure such as the Instrumentation Building, test shops, a meteorological station
and one of the two tracking radars. The range centreline runs through the WIR and WPA along
a line 306° true from the Rangehead. An area within the WIR known as Launch Area 9 (LA-9)
has been selected as the preferred Ausroc 2.5 launch site. This is the same site ASRI uses for the
SSRP launches.
The WIR is controlled and operated by the RAAF’s Aircraft Research and Development Unit
(ARDU) and is serviced by the Woomera township, which is approximately 40 kilometres to the
south-east of the Rangehead. The Woomera township has ample infrastructure and general
facilities to support the Ausroc 2.5 launch campaign.
The following range facilities will be required for Ausroc 2.5 trials:
• The Instrumentation Building (IB) is an
air conditioned two storey building located
in the secured Rangehead area and is the
central hub for all range activity. Range
control, safety, telemetry and monitoring
functions will be co-ordinated from this
location during the Ausroc 2.5 trials.
• Data and communications facilities
between the Instrumentation Building, the
tracking instrumentation sites and Launch
Area 9 will be used extensively.
The Instrumentation Building.
• Test Shop 1 (TS-1) is an airconditioned,
multi-bay building
with a main work area 10 metres
by 20 metres. The multiple bay
arrangement will allow work on
the main launch vehicle, payload
and other discrete systems to be
conducted concurrently. Other
facilities within this test shop
include an overhead crane and
crew room.
• Tracking Kinetheodolites
owned and operated by the
RAAF may be used to measure
the trajectory of the vehicle in
Test Shop 1.
flight to an accuracy of a few
metres.
• Two Adour radars are located in the WIR. These radars are capable of accurately tracking a
one square metre target to about 200 kilometres, or further if a transponder is used. The
tracking data center in the Instrumentation Building processes the radar data and provides
real time display of launch vehicle position.
• A number of High speed cine cameras attached to fixed or tracking mounts will record
launch vehicle behaviour during launch and early ascent.
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LAUNCH OPERATIONS
• Launch Area 9 (LA-9) is a launching area about 6 kilometres to the north west of the
Instrumentation Building. It is currently used by ASRI for the launch of the Sighter and Zuni
rockets under the SSRP. It has a large concrete pad, a partially underground blockhouse and
an elevated observation/camera platform. The site also has existing data, power and
communications wiring, an articulated vehicle shelter and good road access. Only minor
modifications will be required for the Ausroc 2.5 trial.
Launch Area 9 viewed from the observation/camera platform.
• Recovery vehicles with heavy lifting equipment and all terrain capability are available at the
range. These vehicles may be required for the recovery of the Ausroc 2.5 vehicle.
• The Woomera meteorological station is located in the Woomera township technical area.
This station is approximately 40 kilometres from the rangehead and is able to provide
accurate local wind and weather details. If required, radar and/or optically tracked weather
balloons can be released at the Woomera meteorological station or at the rangehead to assess
high altitude wind conditions prior to launch.
5.3 Systems integration & test
All Ausroc 2.5 systems will be accompanied by a detailed set of ‘Design Specification’
documentation including assembly, integration and test (AIT) procedures as well as test results.
Launch vehicle integration
The Ausroc 2.5 launch vehicle will be transported by road to Woomera in a number of
segments. On arrival, the vehicle segments will undergo a further series of tests in Test Shop 1
to ensure that no damage was sustained during transport.
Upon completion of the launch vehicle segment testing in Test Shop 1, the pyrotechnic
components will be installed and the segments integrated into the final flight configuration.
Further checks will then be undertaken to ensure that the mechanical and electrical connections
are secure and functional. The vehicle will then be transported on its’ assembly and
transportation trailer to Launch Area 9 for integration with the launcher.
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LAUNCH OPERATIONS
Launcher integration
On arrival at Launch Area 9 the trailer, with the completed vehicle attached, will be moved into
position at the end of the launcher. The vehicle will slide along the launcher rail to its launch
position at the base of the rail. The vehicle will be connected to its’ ground umbilicals and
elevated into its’ launch position. Further complete system testing will then be undertaken.
These tests will include vehicle-to-ground interface checks, and RF telemetry checks, This
testing will culminate with a reduced duration static firing of the rocket engine to ensure that all
vehicle and ground systems are functioning properly.
Impression of an Ausroc 2.5 vehicle after integration with the launch pedestal.
5.4 Launch operations
5.4.1 Launch operations sequence
The launch operations sequence will be configured to ensure that all payload and launch vehicle
systems are thoroughly tested prior to launch. Detailed procedures will be prepared to assist in
this process as well as enabling safe and timely completion of sequence activities. A basic
project level operations sequence is set below.
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PART 5
LAUNCH OPERATIONS
Launch Area
Launch Control
Centre
Recovery
Operations Base
Test Shop 1
Launch Operations
Personnel Base
(Woomera
Township)
ASRI Integration
Facilities
(Universities, etc.)
Integrated Product
Team Regional
Production Centres
Hardware
Personnel
Program Test and
Operations Personnel
Ausroc 2.5 Operations sequence.
A number of personnel training sessions will be conducted at the integration facilities and
Woomera prior to the launch campaign to familiarise the launch crew with all aspects of the
flight and ground hardware. System and procedural difficulties will be identified and rectified
during these training sessions.
Particular emphasis will be placed on comprehensive training of all personnel associated with
range safety.
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LAUNCH OPERATIONS
5.4.2 Launch operations structure
A top level breakdown of the launch operations structure and chain of command is shown in the
diagram appearing below. The four (4) components are Management, Safety, Engineering and
Trials Support. Much of this structure is derived from the ASRI SSRP operations structure
which is currently in place and approved by the federal government and RAAF-ARDU.
Management
Area
Administrator
Woomera
Commonwealth
Liaison Officer
or
ASRI Area
Controller
Commonwealth
Safety Officer
ASRI
Safety
Committee
ASRI
Board and
Executive
Ausroc 2.5
Trial
Manager
ASRI
Preparation
and Safety
Officer
Fuelling
Officers
RAAF
ARDU
Support
Flight Safety
Engineer
Safety
Support
Crew
ASRI
Logistics
Officer
Payload
Engineer
Payload
Users
Visitors &
Guests
ASRI Public
Liaison
Officer
Propulsion
Engineer
Avionics
Engineer
Media
ASRI Media
Liaison
Officer
Structures
Engineer
Recovery
Engineer
Trial Support
Engineering
Ausroc 2.5 Launch operations structure.
Management Component
The management component has overall responsibility for arranging trials approvals, launch
insurances, operational procedures and the conduct of the operations and launch during the
actual Woomera trials.
Safety Component
The safety component is responsibility for ensuring that the launch campaign is conducted in a
safe manner. This includes the review of all hazardous procedures, conduct and/or supervision
of hazardous operations, flight safety analyses and pre-launch monitoring of environmental
conditions that could lead to safety issues arising.
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LAUNCH OPERATIONS
Engineering Component
The engineering component is responsible for conducting the integration and test of all system
components in the lead up to launch and that the Ausroc 2.5 System is adequately prepared for
launch. In the final lead-up to launch, engineering will be closely monitoring their sub-system
performances via vehicle telemetry.
In the later stages of the countdown to launch each of the key engineering and safety personnel
will be required to confirm the readiness of their system for final sequence. This will be done by
a verbal reply of “go” in response to an inquiry by the Trial Manager. A “stop” reply from any
position at this point or during final sequence will result in a launch delay until the relevant
difficulty can be identified and resolved.
Trial Support Component
In addition to those directly concerned with the integration, testing and operation of the vehicle
and its payload, a significant contingent of personnel will take care of the substantial logistical
support that is required for an operation of this type to operate smoothly and with minimum
distraction of those performing key functions. Although not comprehensive, the following are
some of the more important support roles:
• An assistant to the Trial Manager will act as the focal point for all requests from nontechnical
personnel so that key ASRI and range personnel are not distracted with minor
matters at critical times.
• Several suitably qualified and trained ‘floating’ assistants will be available as backup for
key personnel and to take care of unforeseen contingencies. These assistants will temporarily
relieve or replace any personnel who succumb to sickness or accident.
• Public relations officers will supervise the on site media contingent, handle telephone
interviews and inquiries and take care of visitors and guests. They will also be responsible
for setting up and supervising entertainment facilities for use by visitors and guests during
any uneventful delays.
• A recording officer will be responsible for producing a comprehensive photographic,
motion picture and sound record of the trials campaign for ASRI’s own records, to augment
media stories and for subsequent use in a documentary.
• Catering officers will arrange meals and refreshments as there are no catering facilities at
the rangehead itself and the Woomera Township are about a 40 minute drive away.
• A general facilities manager will be responsible for ensuring that the trials contingent has
adequate and satisfactory general facilities including transport to and from the rangehead,
firefighting equipment, first aid measures, washing facilities and ablutions.
• A home base manager will assist with matters relating to the domestic base of operations in
the Woomera township such as accommodation, entertainment, communications, messages
and transport to and from capital cities.
5.4.3 Flight control centre
The flight control centre will be located in the Instrumentation Building control room at the
rangehead. Telemetry data from the rocket will be received via umbilical hard-line prior to
launch and via the vehicle transmitters post launch. All telemetry data will be logged to mass
storage and processed for the monitoring console displays.
The monitoring consoles for each engineering and safety position will be occupied by one or
more persons during the test and launch sequences. Each console will be customised to display
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LAUNCH OPERATIONS
all relevant telemetry data for that position and will sound warnings if system parameters
approach or exceed specified limits. This will allow for immediate and informed decisions to be
made about system functionality and readiness.
5.5 Range safety
Range safety is of paramount importance in the conduct of any launch operations.
A range safety analysis will be carried out by Ausroc 2.5 personnel in accordance with Aircraft
Research and Development Unit (ARDU), and the Defence Science and Technology
Organisation (DSTO) requirements and accepted practices. This analysis will be a
comprehensive examination of all potential contingencies arising from the launch. It will
include a close examination of issues such as the following:
• Launch wind effects and limitations;
• Vehicle dispersion;
• Divergence of the vehicle structure;
• Flight corridor specification;
• Procedures for abort and recovery;
• Ensuring compliance with Woomera 'clean-range' policy; and
• Range tracking facilities.
Throughout the flight of the vehicle, tracking data will be used to calculate the point of impact
of the rocket should propulsion terminate at that instant. This is known as the “walking impact
point”. Large screen monitors will be used to display the walking impact point, range safety
boundaries and other trajectory data.
5.6 Range security and access
Being extremely remote and originally constructed as a military base, the Woomera range
already has adequate security provisions for trials of this nature. Subject to the approval of
range authorities, it is expected that public access will be allowed but restricted to the holders of
a limited number of ASRI access passes reserved primarily for trials personnel, ASRI members,
media and invited guests. This restriction will be necessary for safety reasons and to ensure that
the number of individuals not directly concerned with the trials does not become unmanageable.
5.7 Insurance
Launch liability insurance will be taken out to cover the pre-flight, flight and post-flight phases
of the Ausroc 2.5 trials at Woomera. General cover will also be obtained with respect to ground
operations. It is expected that this policy will be similar to the SSRP launch liability policy.
THE AUSROC 2.5 PROGRAM 47

PART 6
LIFT OFF AND BEYOND
LIFT OFF AND
BEYOND
6.1 Build up to launch
The launch operations will be the culmination of many years of effort by around a hundred
people throughout Australia and around the world. As preparations are completed and the
scheduled launch day approaches, tension will mount among those involved in the program and
public interest, fuelled by the inevitable media coverage, will peak. It is expected that the
support township will be host to several hundred or more trials personnel, media
representatives, official guests and interested members of the public from all over Australia, and
some from other parts of the world.
The following section contains a description of an Ausroc 2.5 trial as it might be conducted at
Woomera.
6.2 The launch day
The actual launch of the vehicle will be scheduled to take place reasonably early in the morning
when the atmosphere is relatively cool and calm. This will minimise the risk of systems
overheating and high winds interfering with the launch. It will also allow the maximum time for
recovery operations.
A planned launch time of approximately 0900 hours (9.00am) is likely. This will mean that on
the morning of the launch, the range staff and trials personnel concerned with the preparation of
the vehicle will depart for the rangehead at approximately 0400 so as to commence the final
preparations by about 0500.
The personnel responsible for the
hands on preparation of the vehicle
itself will proceed to LA9. The top
level launch operations personnel
will proceed to the control centre in
the Instrumentation Building.
Final preparations will be
commenced with an assessment of
the most recent weather forecasts
and the conditions then being
observed at the rangehead, including
high altitude winds. Out at LA9,
protective coverings will be
removed from the vehicle and all
vehicle and ground systems will be
activated.
Over the course of the next few
Dawn on the road from Woomera township to the
rangehead. The drive can be hazardous as Kangaroos are
numerous and hard to see in the dim orange light.
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LIFT OFF AND BEYOND
hours, the crew at LA9 and those located in the Instrumentation Building will collaborate in
conducting comprehensive and methodical testing of each of the flight critical systems. These
tests will culminate in several “dry runs” of the final sequence with the launcher elevated in
nominal flight position.
Dawn during the winter months is around 0700. By this time preparation of the vehicle
propellant systems will have commenced. The first step is to purge all air and moisture from the
vehicle tanks, plumbing and fairings with dry nitrogen gas. This minimises the risk of explosion
or fire in the vehicle. After thorough purging, the tridyne and then the kerosene fuelling
operations will be conducted.
By this time range safety assessments
for the given weather conditions will be
well advanced. Back in the Woomera
township, the media contingent, guests
and the remainder of the trials team will
have departed for the public and media
observation area at the Instrumentation
Building.
By about 0830 the vehicle will be ready
for the hazardous operation of filling
the liquid oxygen tank. Up to this time,
the vehicle will be as safe as an aircraft
to approach and work on. However,
once the liquid oxygen filling
procedure is commenced, the vehicle
will be in a hazardous, potentially
explosive state. It will then be very
difficult or impossible to work on any
malfunctioning systems without abort.
Early morning operations at the Woomera Rangehead.
Adequate protection from the biting cold is essential.
For this reason the Trial Manager will
call all stations on the communications
loop to confirm that there are no difficulties and that all personnel are in their proper positions.
This will include personnel manning roadblocks and other remote stations concerned with
tracking and filming the vehicle in flight. If any difficulties remain unresolved, the countdown
will be held at that point. If no difficulties are apparent, the range will be sealed and no
movement of personnel will be permitted without specific authorisation. At about T minus 30
minutes the Trial Manager will direct the trials personnel to commence hazardous liquid
oxygen fuelling operations. Upon completion of the liquid oxygen fuelling, final checks of all
systems will be conducted.
About 5 minutes before the scheduled launch, the engineers monitoring each of the vehicle
systems will be asked by the Trial Manager over the communications loop to confirm the
readiness of their system for final sequence. Each will respond with a verbal “go” if ready or
“stop” if not. When all systems are confirmed ready, the computer controlled launch sequencer
will be activated.
Within the last two minutes before launch the vehicle will be switched to internal power. There
will then be no verbal communication on the loop (unless a problem arises) until after the
launch. The final seconds of the countdown will be marked only by electronic pips; three at
thirty seconds, two at twenty seconds, one at ten seconds and one for each of the last ten
seconds. However, for the benefit of the public gallery and media, a running commentary will
be maintained as to the advancement of the countdown and any developments of interest.
At T minus 0 seconds the motor will be ignited and ramp quickly up to full thrust. When the
thrust reaches 75% of its nominal 35kN, the break-wire, holding the rocket to the launcher, will
break – releasing the vehicle to slide up and off the 10m long launch rail. Since the vehicle is
only fin stabilized, the 10m rail allows the vehicle to gain aerodynamic stability prior to
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LIFT OFF AND BEYOND
entering ‘free’ flight. As the vehicle moves up the launcher rail, the umbilical cable is
automatically released.
The acceleration of the vehicle will initially be around 70 m/s 2 or 7 ‘g’ (7 times the force of
gravity). This high acceleration allows the vehicle to build up considerable speed prior to
leaving the launcher. The acceleration will increase to 11g at burnout when the propellant tanks
are completely empty and the vehicle passes into more rarefied atmosphere.
The Ausroc 2.5 Launch will appear very similar to this Ausroc II-2 Launch in
1995.
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LIFT OFF AND BEYOND
150.000
100.000
Motor Burnout
Acceleration (m/s2)
50.000
0.000
Launch
-50.000
-100.000
0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20
Time (s)
1200
Burnout
1000
800
Velocity (m/s)
600
Apogee & Drogue Deployment
400
Main Parachute Deployment
200
Launch
Ground Impact
0
0 100 200 300 400 500 600 700
Time (s)
Ausroc 2.5 simulated acceleration and velocity profiles
The vehicle and its distinctive vapour trail will be plainly visible from the Instrumentation
Building as it accelerates upward on a trajectory angled toward the north-west. The exhaust
plume will gradually expand into a broader cone as the vehicle passes into more rarefied
atmosphere. The vehicle or vapour trail should be visible to the naked eye for the majority of its
burn time.
The propellants will be exhausted and the motor shut down at about T plus 13 seconds. By this
time the vehicle will be traveling at over 1100 m/s (3900 kilometres per hour) and be over 6
kilometres high. At apogee (peak altitude), pyrotechnic charges will fire to separate the nose
cone and initiate the recovery deployment sequence.
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LIFT OFF AND BEYOND
35000
30000
Apogee & Drogue Deployment
25000
Altitude (m)
20000
15000
10000
5000
Motor Burnout
Main Parachute Deployment
Launch
Ground Impact
0
0 10000 20000 30000 40000 50000 60000
Range (m)
Ausroc 2.5 simulated altitude vs range profile
Both the nose cone and rocket vehicle will initially descend under their own ‘drogue’
parachutes. At 2000m altitude, the rocket vehicle will deploy its’ main parachute to further
reduce its’ descent velocity. The rocket vehicle will reach a gentle ground impact, under main
parachute, approximately 11 minutes after liftoff.
Back at the rangehead, the Trial Manager, Woomera Range Manager and Flight Safety
Engineer will confirm the status of all systems before dispatching the recovery team to collect
all rocket vehicle and nose cone. In the interim, all data obtained will be stored and collated
together with all photographic records, film, video and sound recordings.
The range and trials personnel will then stand down and return to the Woomera township. Upon
recovery, the vehicle components will be delivered to the Rangehead for subsequent analysis.
All going well with the flight and landing, the vehicle will be in good condition for
refurbishment and re-launch at a later date.
6.3 What the launch will mean for Australia
In such a difficult field of endeavour, where even the experts operating with massive budgets
experience regular failures, an entirely successful launch of the prototype Ausroc 2.5 vehicle
would be a truly remarkable achievement.
However, it is important to recognise that irrespective of the outcome of the prototype launch,
the Project will have successfully achieved many of its objectives by the time the vehicle is
fully assembled on the pad. It has been many years since any activity of this nature has been
undertaken in Australia. As a nation, we have never previously sought to develop a rocket of
the type and capability of Ausroc 2.5, even during the heyday of Woomera. As a consequence,
Australia has never previously enjoyed the commercial and practical advantages that flow from
self determination in this field. Our industry has always been at the mercy of decisions made in
distant countries by people with no direct interest in nurturing Australian commercial activity.
It is hardly surprising that our industry has struggled.
Yet it seems that few of our nation’s leaders can see beyond courting the proposals of
foreigners to conduct their operations from our terra firma. Of course, any foreign generated
activity would provide a valuable boost and should be encouraged for that reason. However,
our own history has proven that merely hosting foreign projects does not necessarily lead to an
industry that is sustainable in the long run, nor to any capability in the closely guarded high
value added technologies. It is vitally important to recognise that hosting foreign projects can
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LIFT OFF AND BEYOND
only ever be a good step toward, rather than a substitute for, our own domestic capability. Any
policy that consists only of courting foreign activity is fundamentally flawed for this reason.
The bottom line is that if Australia is to reap the rewards offered by this industry, including
those in the lucrative satellite technology field, we must also move to develop and demonstrate
an active, cost effective and dedicated capability in at least the basic disciplines; the core
technologies. No-one else is going to do that for us and we have little hope of really competing
in this market until it is done. In establishing an entire business infrastructure for the design,
resourcing, construction, testing and launch of a vehicle of the sophistication of Ausroc 2.5, the
project is a big step toward achieving that capability irrespective of the outcome of the
prototype launch.
6.4 After launch - the path ahead
After the completion and wind down of the prototype trial campaign, detailed analysis of the
performance of the vehicle will be undertaken as a precursor to the next step forward.
The Ausroc 2.5 Project Evolution
A significant failure will require considerable post launch analysis and probably modifications
to the prototype. A successful launch will enable the Ausroc 2.5 development project to be
completed with the re-launch of the prototype demonstrating the reusability requirement of the
vehicle.
The Ausroc 2.5 project may then be extended and/or modified (evolved) depending on
opportunities and resources at that time. Otherwise, it will be formally closed as an independent
project and the technology and process base merged into the Ausroc III Project. It should be
pointed out that the Ausroc 2.5 propulsion sub-system is a close copy of that baselined for use
in the Ausroc III vehicle.
The Ausroc III Program
The development of Ausroc III will be well advanced by the completion of the Ausroc 2.5
project. A significant amount of technology development and configuration design has already
been completed. The Ausroc III vehicle will be capable of lifting a 150kg payload to 500km
and provide over 5 minutes of useful microgravity time, or programmed trajectory profiles to
suit a wide variety of customer requirements – a much more versatile sounding rocket than the
Ausroc 2.5 vehicle.
The Ausroc IV Program
The design development of the Ausroc IV Micro-satellite Launch Vehicle will follow the
development of the Ausroc III vehicle and be well advanced by the time the prototype Ausroc
III is launched. Tests of the third stage motor should be complete and much of the other
necessary hardware in detailed design by that time. It is also likely that ASRI will have
completed the development of a micro-satellite of a size and weight suitable for launch onboard
Ausroc IV.
The first stage of Ausroc IV is essentially a cluster of four Ausroc III vehicles without payload
modules. The second stage will be a fifth Ausroc III vehicle, with the engine modified for
operation at higher altitude. Successful completion of the Ausroc III Project will therefore
amount to substantial completion of the major components of Ausroc IV. It follows that ASRI
will then be close to having the technology and capability to place micro-satellites into orbit.
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Ausroc III Baseline Configuration
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Ausroc IV Baseline Configuration.
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An Ausroc V Program?
The intention of the Ausroc Program is to develop capability that is both advanced and relevant.
It is possible that this capability will attract the attention of commercial enterprises interested in
collaborative development, exploitation of the technology, or adaptation of the technology base
to heavier and/or more commercially attractive applications. It is contemplated that any such
initiative would operate as an independent program under a joint venture agreement or similar
arrangement with the relevant commercial party. An ‘Ausroc V’ concept is shown in the
diagram below.
Commercial exploitation of the technology base is consistent with ASRI’s objectives and
considered desirable provided it advances space science and technology within Australia.
6.5 Conclusion
The Ausroc 2.5 Project is one of the most advanced programs of its type in the world. To the
best of our knowledge, the Ausroc III and IV Programs are the most advanced. All were born
and are being advanced out of frustration over the lack of activity in this field in Australia.
The Ausroc 2.5 Project deserves the commitment and support of the Australian community for
the reasons identified earlier. It is not being advanced with profit in mind but purely to stem the
disastrous decline in capability in a field that is becoming increasingly important to our
country’s economic well being. We ask for your help in advancing the program. After all, in
years to come it may be your children that enjoy the career opportunities generated by our
efforts.
Please register your interest by sending us the form at the end of this document or otherwise
emailing us.
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36
34
AUSROC I - Successfully Launched 9th February 1989
32
AUSROC II-1 - Launch Pad Failure 1992
'AUSROC V'
30
AUSROC II-2 - Successfully Launched 1995
28
26
24
22
20
AUSROC 2.5 - In Development (Launch est. 2007)
AUSROC III - In Development (Launch est. 2010)
AUSROC IV - In Development (Launch est. 2013)
AUSROC V - Concept Definition Only
18
16
14
12
AUSROC IV
10
AUSROC III
8
AUSROC 2.5
6
AUSROC II
4
AUSROC I
2
0
Evolution of the Ausroc Program
THE AUSROC 2.5 PROGRAM 57

INCIDENTAL
Program Completion
ASRI guarantees the advancement of the Ausroc 2.5 Project to the extent that available resources permit. Based upon past experience,
completion of the project within the time set out in this publication is expected to be a challenge but not unrealistic. However, because
ASRI is reliant to a considerable extent upon continuing government, industry and community support, completion within any
particular time frame or at all cannot be ultimately assured.
Accuracy
Every effort has been made to ensure that the contents of this publication are accurate and fairly represent the Ausroc 2.5 Project as at
the date of publication. However, the Project is the subject of ongoing development and for this reason we give no warranty or
assurance that the same will progress in the manner foreshadowed.
Contents
The comments, views, opinions and the like contained in this publication are those of ASRI and are not attributable to or necessarily
held by any supporter or member.
No Financial Interest or Return
This publication contains a number of references to potential benefits that may be enjoyed through support of the Project. It should be
understood that this Project does not offer or promise any financial interest or return. In particular, ASRI does not offer or invite any
subscription or purchase of any prescribed interest within the meaning of the Corporations Law.
No Liability
Those who participate in our programs do so at their own risk in all respects. Although every effort is made to ensure safety, we do not
accept any ultimate responsibility. Participants voluntarily assume the risk of loss or injury and should, if concerned, take out
appropriate insurance cover for themselves. ASRI disclaims to the maximum extent permissible by law all and any liability that might
arise with respect to participation in or involvement with any of its activities.
Partial Waiver of Copyright
This publication and its contents are subject to copyright but permission is given for reproduction if for the main purpose of promoting
ASRI, the Ausroc 2.5 Project and/or interest therein. Otherwise this publication and/or any part of it may not be reproduced without
written permission from ASRI except as is permitted under the Copyright Act 1968.
Contact Details
Australian Space Research Institute Limited ACN 051 850 563
Postal Address: PO Box 3890
Manuka, ACT
Australia 2603
Registered Office:
Email Address:
Web Site:
17 Yallourn Street
Fyshwick, ACT
Australia, 2609
asri@asri.org.au
http://www.asri.org.au
© Australian Space Research Institute Limited 2006

“It is unfortunate that a country with the strong industrial base
and high technology infrastructure of Australia does not have a
nationally sponsored activity in launch development. ASRI is to be
praised for pushing forward despite this. It is my hope that one
day, Australia will recognise the great benefit that its society
would derive, and the role that it could play in the international
community, were such a policy to be followed. Until that time, the
efforts of ASRI fill an important void within the country’s
capabilities and sustain a technical capability that will become
critical in the years that lie ahead.”
Dr. Andrew S. W. Thomas
Australian Born NASA Mission Specialist
Space Shuttle Mission STS-77, 89, 102, 114
© Australian Space Research Institute Limited 2006

Australian Space Research Institute Limited
PO Box 3890
Manuka, ACT
Australia 2603
EMAIL: asri@asri.org.au
WEB: www.asri.org.au
FAX: +612-6259-1912
AUSROC PROGRAM
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