An Investigation Of The Optimum Design And Flight Of Rockets PDF Download

An analysis using classical variational methods was made whereby significant physical characteristics of rockets were determined in an optimal sense. A two-point boundary-value problem was formulated which, when solved, provided the significant physical parameters and flight path for a two-stage rocket which would deliver a given payload to orbit with minimum total initial mass. Numerical solutions were carried out for nine cases by an iterative method. The results show how the stage masses and thrusts should be proportioned for various structural efficiencies in the fuel tanks and rocket motors. Analyses of the type carried out for this investigation should be useful in the sizing and, generally, in the design of rockets.