Micro High Energy Upper Stage

Deep space capabilities – beyond Earth’s orbit – are possible on existing small launch vehicles. As the CubeSat class and small satellite utility increases, an evaluation of the options to service significant science objectives in this class need to be assessed. Pegasus and Minotaur I are small launch vehicle systems that when coupled with the appropriately designed and sized upper stage provides affordable access to high energy trajectories for small satellites. The Micro High Energy Upper Stage (MHEUS – pronounced “muse”) is a small satellite launch vehicle system that provides high energy access to space for the small satellite community. Lessons learned from the Pegasus Interstellar Boundary Explorer (IBEX) mission, the Minotaur V Lunar Atmospheric and Dust Environment Explorer (LADEE) mission, as well as current Orbital work on advanced upper stages using ATK solid rocket motors provide the technical foundation for MHEUS. This paper provides an overview of the technologies being integrated into the MHEUS, and systems that have been adapted for use. 8-LSG Generic NLR-0126