Aerospike Nozzles for Reusable Launch Vehicles: Prospects and Possibilities

When striving for frequent and cost-effective space transport, the paramount consideration is the reusability of various launch vehicle stages. In this context, aerospike engines offer a superior solution compared to conventional engines due to their innate capacity for continuous altitude adjustment. This paper delves into several aspects related to aerospike nozzles, including the comparative analysis of flow fields within linear and truncated plug configurations, the influence of base bleed mechanisms, and the utilization of aerospike engines in retro-propulsion scenarios. The examination encompasses both axi-symmetric and linear aerospike nozzle designs.