Launch Vehicle Front End Cover and Retraction System

Project number: 
22017
Sponsor: 
Northrop Grumman
Academic year: 
2021-2022
Northrop Grumman uses flythrough covers to cloak the shapes of launch vehicles and protect their frontends from environmental conditions. However, these covers are not reusable.

This team tested and modeled a reusable frontend cover and cable and spool retraction system, whereby the cover can be removed without recontacting the vehicle.

The cover has a clamshell-like opening and is made of a soft, durable, inflatable material. It protects the vehicle from high temperatures, wind, precipitation and humidity and can be used two or three times within a year. The easily assembled, operated and transported retraction system can be adapted to different launch sites and vehicle heights.

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