A Simple Theory of Aerospaceplane

Abstract

Simplified equations of energy and momentum conservation lead to a closed form expression of effective exhaust velocity of an air breathing engine which characterizes an aerospaceplane. Following features of hypervelocity propulsion are disclosed. First, the intake air is effective as an oxygen carrier, a momentum carrier and an energy carrier depending on the flight velocity. Second, actual thermochemical values allow only hydrogen to be the fuel of an aerospaceplane. Third, efficiency of energy utilization for intake air must exceed 90% in order to reach near an orbital speed.