Asia Pacific Space Centre (APSC), a Russian-Australian consortium, has proposed a commercial satellite launch service based on Christmas Island using the Aurora launch vehicle. APSC includes Russian agency Rosaviakosmos and companies Energia, KBOM and Samara.
The consortium plans to offer three- and four-stage Aurora models, capable of placing up to 12t into low Earth orbit and 2t into geostationary transfer orbit. Aurora, which will resemble a Russian Soyuz, will be based on Energia, Molniya, Proton, Soyuz and other Russian technologies.
The first and second stages incorporate a core stage and four strap-on boosters powered by NK-33 engines, while stage three is powered by an RD-0124. A fourth stage will be powered by a derivative of the DM stage that flies on the Proton.
The first commercial launches could be in late 2003. APSC says it is negotiating with "potential major satellites users". APSC expects Aurora to be able to make up to 15 launches a year by 2006.
Russia's Air Start plans air-launches of satellites from an Antonov An-124 Ruslan in 2003. Three Vozdushny Polyot rocket launches carrying up to 4t to 2,000-10,000km (1,240-6,200 miles) circular and elliptical Earth orbits are planned. Launches are possible from any 3,000m (9,840ft) runway at costs of $2,000-$2,500 per kg. Polyot will be a two-stage booster, the first stage equipped with NK-33 liquid oxygen/kerosene engines and a second DM stage.Source: Flight International
