DEFINITION:

Includes a wide range of technologies for propulsion systems, based on the use of chemical energy, relevant to the following

major applications: (1) spacecraft on-board propulsion; (2) reusable or expendable launch vehicles/upper stage propulsion; (3) re-entry manoeuvring propulsion systems.

(Source ESA TD 19A)

SUBDOMAINS:

1. Liquid Propulsion Systems: Includes cold gas, mono- and bipropellant, onboard systems, cryogenic and LOX/hydrocarbon launch vehicle systems.
2. Solid Propulsion Systems: Includes from micro-thrust systems up to launch vehicle boosters.
3. Air-Breathing and Hybrid Propulsion Systems: Includes ramjets, scramjets, rocket based cycles.