Research Laboratory of the US Air Force (Affl) conducted a test of the possibilities of point delivery of goods (Rocket Cargo) aboard a commercial mission from Cape Canaveral Spaceport. The test was carried out using the SpaceX Starfall capsule.
The Rocket Cargo project is aimed at assessing the feasibility of using large commercial rockets on liquid fuel for the rapid delivery of material resources to any point on Earth in tactical terms. The capsule functions as a protected container, which is launched into orbit, and later performs a controlled entry into the atmosphere and landing in a given area.
During the flight, the capsule was equipped with temperature sensors, shock loads and vibrations. AFRL experimental cargo modules with control equipment were placed inside. The data collection system recorded the effect of launch conditions, orbital flight and return to the integrity of the payload.
Special attention is paid to the preservation of electronic systems, means of survival, satellite tracker, batteries, desalinator, medical equipment and life raft UNI-PAC III. The capsule provides thermal protection and cushioning, necessary for the safe delivery of sensitive goods.
AFRL leadership noted, that the trial demonstrates the potential for rapid global mobility. The key advantage of the concept is a significant load capacity — tens of tons per launch, which allows cargo to be delivered to hard-to-reach and contested areas without the need for airfields.
AFRL continues to work with commercial companies, in particular SpaceX, Blue Origin, Rocket Lab, Sierra Space, On the sensor, Inversion Space і Outpost Space, for further development of launch technologies, return of capsules and prompt delivery of material resources.
Source: https://www.afmc.af.mil