Usersguide Zero
Usersguide Zero
0 | JULY 2024
VISION MISSION
Aspire to a future where the wonders of Empower the world with rocket solutions
space are accessible to all
REVISION HISTORY
Version Date Update
CONTACT
https://www.istellartech.com/en launch@istellartech.com
06 OPERATIONS
6.1 AVAILABLE SERVICES & EQUIPMENT
6.2 PAYLOAD PROCESSING WORKFLOW
6.3 MISSION & LAUNCH TIMELINE
6.4 MISSION PROFILE
S1 Stage 1
S2 Stage 2
1.1 C O M P A N Y P R O F I L E
Interstellar is a dynamic Japanese start-up with a vision of making space accessible to
everyone through low-cost and convenient space transportation services.
Headquartered in Taiki, Hokkaido, Interstellar's product development extends across five
locations, including branches in Tokyo, Fukushima, and Obihiro, as well as a laboratory at
the Muroran Institute of Technology.
Interstellar has achieved three successful spaceflights with suborbital launch vehicle
MOMO, making it Japan's first private company to reach space. Currently, Interstellar is
developing the orbital-class launch vehicle ZERO. Additionally, Interstellar leads Our
Stars, a satellite development project, pioneering Japan's vertically integrated
rocket-satellite service.
1.2 V E H I C L E O V E R V I E W
Interstellar's strength lies in its
comprehensive in-house capabilities for
design, manufacturing, testing, and
launch. By managing all development FAIRING
stages internally, Interstellar eliminates
HEIGHT : 5.0 m
unnecessary elements, accelerates
DIAMETER : 2.3 m
development and manufacturing, and
achieves significant cost reductions.
1st STAGE
HEIGHT
ENGINE x 9
32 m / 1260 inch PROPELLANT :
Liquid Methane + LOX
DIAMETER
2.3 m / 90.6 inch
1.3 K E Y C O M P O N E N T S
1st STAGE ENGINE [x9]
1st STAGE
INTERSTAGE
2nd STAGE ENGINE [x1]
2nd STAGE
PAYLOAD ATTACH FITTING
FAIRING
AVIONICS
Reliable Systems for Mission Safeguarding
The avionics system serves a mission critical role in ZERO as it holds the responsibility of
monitoring and controlling the safety of the vehicle. The architecture, mechanical hardware,
electronic hardware, FPGA, and software development of the avionics system of ZERO are all
done in-house at Interstellar.
GIMBAL MECHANISM
Enhancing Mission Safety
Gimbal mechanism controls the direction of each engine and consequently the launch vehicle
trajectory and orientation. This allows engine adjustments mid-flight, improving safety for the
missions. This technology has been demonstrated in our suborbital launch vehicle MOMO.
PROPELLANT TANKS
Crafting High-Performance Tanks
Design, manufacturing, welding, and testing of the tanks are done at Interstellar.
High-strength aluminum alloy is used for the tanks that will store the liquid biomethane fuel
and liquid oxygen oxidizer. A proof and a burst pressure test were done to ensure its capability
to withstand design pressures and to gauge the pressure endurance limits.
ENGINE
Engine Systems Developed In-House
Interstellar adopted a liquid methane with liquid oxygen engine for ZERO. A cluster of 9 of the
same engines will be used on the first stage, and a single engine of the same design with a
vacuum optimized nozzle will be used on the second stage.
1.4 C O S M O S E N G I N E
GAS GENERATOR CYCLE & REGENERATIVE COOLING SYSTEMS
ZERO is a bipropellant rocket that uses
liquid bio-methane as fuel and liquid oxygen
as an oxidizer. This represents Interstellar's
first use of a gas generator cycle, where
part of the propellants is burned in a gas
generator to drive a high-speed turbopump.
This turbopump operates at tens of
thousands of rotations per minute,
delivering fuel to the combustion chamber
under high pressure. The rocket also
employs regenerative cooling, utilizing the
fuel to effectively cool the combustion
chamber walls.
Turbine
Turbine
Exhaust Port
Main Combustion
Exhaust
Chamber
Heat Exchange
1.4 C O S M O S E N G I N E
HIGH-PERFORMANCE & SUSTAINABLE ROCKET FUEL for ENVIRONMENTALLY-CONSCIOUS LAUNCHES
Advantages of
Methane
LOW ENVIRONMENTAL FOOTPRINT
Ocean : Methane <<< Kerosene
Atmosphere : Methane < Hydrogen < Solid
as Rocket Fuel
2.1 F L I G H T P E R F O R M A N C E
ZERO can carry payloads up to 800 kg to a mid-inclination Low Earth Orbit (LEO) at 561
km, while maintaining the flexibility to meet various payload and orbit requirements. In
the demanding Sun Synchronous Orbit (SSO), it can efficiently launch payloads of up to
250 kg at 561 km. Refer to the performance curve below for more detailed information.
2.2 O R B I T I N J E C T I O N A C C U R A C Y
The target injection accuracies of ZERO for a typical mission are as follows. These
estimates will be further refined with collected flight data.
Perigee ± 10 km
Apogee ± 15 km
3.1 F A I R I N G C A P A C I T Y
The payload fairing of ZERO is designed to accommodate a wide range of payload sizes
and configurations, offering flexibility for various mission requirements. The
accompanying figure illustrates the dimensions and shape of this space. Detailed
specifications, including height, diameter, and overall volume, are provided to help you
optimize the integration of your payload.
∅
420mm
16.5 inch
∅
1,410 mm
55.5 inch
3,800 mm
∅ 149.6 inch
1,900 mm
74.8 inch 2,550 mm
100.4 inch
1,307 mm
51.5 inch
3.2 P A Y L O A D C O O R D I N A T E F R A M E
The origin of the Payload Coordinate System is fixed at the center of the mechanical
interface between customer-supplied hardware and Interstellar-supplied hardware. This
coordinate frame is used for describing the flight environment conditions and
mechanical interfaces outlined in this document. The actual payload coordinate frame
will be further defined in the mission-specific ICD. For this purpose, assuming a standard
circular interface, the direction aligned with the launch is defined as the "Axial
Direction," while the orthogonal direction is defined as the "Lateral Direction."
Axial Direction
Launch Direction
Lateral Direction
ZERO is capable of supporting various types of payloads, including small satellites and
CubeSats. A wide range of separation systems can be accommodated by tailoring the
bolt footprint of Interstellar-supplied hardware to match the customer-selected
separation system. Payloads can be arranged and fitted in different ways inside the
fairing to suit the specific requirements of each flight.
Please contact us if you have any questions or need assistance in selecting a separation
system.
Small Satellite x 1
Small Satellite x 1 Small Satellites x 4 CubeSats x 4
CubeSats x 5
3.4 E L E C T R I C A L I N T E R F A C E S
Interstellar provides a flexible electrical interface tailored to accommodate diverse
payloads, separation systems, and dispensers. This interface typically includes
redundant payload deployment transmission signals and feedback signals to confirm
deployment status for standard missions. Specific details regarding the electrical
interface will be outlined in the mission-specific Interface Control Document.
Please reach out to us for confirmation of our ability to support your preferred deployer
hardware.
The flight environments outlined below represent the expected maximum predicted
environments (MPE) for payloads in a typical mission. The loads and environments
provided in this section are for reference only. The actual mission-specific environments
will be detailed in the Interface Control Document (ICD) provided to customers.
For any questions about payload environments, please contact our team.
4.1 N A T U R A L F R E Q U E N C I E S & D A M P I N G
The purpose of defining natural frequencies and damping requirements is to ensure that
the payload’s elastic natural frequencies do not couple with those of the launch vehicle.
All elastic natural frequencies of the payloads must be above 40 Hz and must have a
quality factor (Q) between 10 and 50. These requirements are designed to adequately
account for the expected flight environments.
In this document, an elastic natural frequency refers to any frequency response of the
payload that involves modal participation, as determined by a fixed-base modal analysis.
4.2 Q U A S I - S T A T I C L O A D F A C T O R S
The payload will experience a range of acceleration loads in both the axial and lateral
axes during the flight, as shown in the graph below. This envelope includes static and
low-frequency dynamic loads.
Axial acceleration loads arise from thrust, aerodynamic axial forces, separation forces,
and similar factors. Lateral acceleration loads result from wind gusts, thrust vector
control (TVC) reaction forces, first-stage engine shutdown, and other short-term
events.
4.3 R A N D O M V I B R A T I O N
The plot below shows the estimated Maximum Predicted Random Vibration Environment
for microsatellite-class payloads. This estimate is based on an analysis of vehicle
environments and past data and is subject to change as additional flight information and
testing become available.
4.4 S H O C K
The maximum predicted shock response at the payload interface from all sources of
launch vehicle shock is shown in the graph and table. This level is defined assuming a
quality factor (Q) of 10. The estimate is based on an analysis of vehicle environments
and past data and is subject to change as additional flight information and testing
become available.
4.5 A C O U S T I C
The vibroacoustic environment inside the fairing is determined as shown in the graph
and table below. This environment encompasses the acoustic vibrations generated by
the first-stage engine during lift-off, as well as the acoustic vibrations from pressure
fluctuations outside the vehicle during atmospheric flight. These conditions will be
redefined as more flight data becomes available.
Frequency
31.5 40 50 63 80 100 125 160 200 250 315 400 500
[Hz]
SPL
121 122 123 124 124.9 125.7 126.3 126.7 126.9 126.6 126 124.8 123.6
[dB]
FREQUENCY
630 800 1000 1250 1600 2000 2500 3150 4000 5000 6300 8000 10000
[Hz]
SPL
122.2 120.9 119.3 117.5 115.5 113.6 111.9 110.1 108.4 106.5 104.6 102.8 101.1
[dB]
4.6 E L E C T R O M A G N E T I C
ELECTROMAGNETIC EMISSIONS FROM ZERO AND LAUNCH SITE
This section outlines the worst-case radiated emissions from the Launch Vehicle and
Launch Site. Payloads can expect to encounter an electric field (E-Field) from these
emissions, with levels no higher than those indicated in the graph and table below. The
electric field level is measured at the payload interface plane.
Components on payloads that are sensitive to RF environments should be verified for
compatibility with the specified radiated environment.
Label A B C D E F
4.7 F A I R I N G T H E R M A L E N V I R O N M E N T
FAIRING TEMPERATURE AS SEEN FROM PAYLOAD
The temperature profile below shows the maximum fairing spot temperature seen by the
payload. The emissivity of the fairing is approximately 0.9.
The Payload experiences a maximum free molecular aero-thermal heating rate of under
1135 W/m² at the point of fairing separation. This heating rapidly diminishes and
becomes insignificant within a few minutes.
4.8 H U M I D I T Y
The maximum relative humidity inside the fairing from lift-off until just before fairing
separation is 65%. This controlled humidity level ensures the protection and integrity
of the payload during the initial phases of the flight. ZERO is designed to maintain
optimal environmental conditions, ensuring the successful deployment and operation of
the payload.
4.9 V E N T I N G
The graph below shows the pressure and decompression rate during flight for a typical
mission. The maximum depressurization rate is 1.9 kPa/s, with brief periods during flight
reaching up to 4.5 kPa/s for only 5 seconds.
Please note that these are preliminary values and are subject to refinement with
additional calculations and flight data.
5.1 A B O U T H O K K A I D O S P A C E P O R T
Hokkaido Spaceport (HOSPO) is the the
global commercial spaceport in East Asia,
located in Taiki, Hokkaido, Japan.
5.2 A C C E S S
HOSPO is located in Taiki, southeastern
Tokachi Obihiro
Hokkaido Prefecture, easily accessible
Airport 40 min
from Tokyo within 2.5 hours. The by car
recommended route is to fly from Haneda
Airport to Tokachi Obihiro Airport in
Hokkaido, then drive to the launch site.
100 min
by plane
5.3 P A Y L O A D P R O C E S S I N G F A C I L I T Y
The following illustrates the layout of the Payload Processing Facility at LC-1, featuring
the payload integration room, airlock, and dedicated customer office space. Please note
that as the facility is currently under construction, the final layout may slightly differ.
Maintenance
Room
HVAC
Customer
Office
Gowning
Area
Cleanroom
Airlock
Unloading
Area
5.4 C U S T O M E R O F F I C E
Interstellar provides an office area within the Payload Processing Facility, strategically
positioned adjacent to the payload integration area for convenient access. Although the
facility is currently under construction, the aim is to equip the office area with
essential amenities including Internet connection, air conditioning, and standard office
equipment such as desks, chairs, and phones.
6.1 A V A I L A B L E S E R V I C E S & E Q U I P M E N T
As part of our launch package, Interstellar offers a variety of services and equipment.
Some examples of what we can provide are detailed below. Recognizing the uniqueness
of each mission, the specific services and equipment will be finalized during the signing
of the Launch Services Agreement (LSA). We encourage early discussions during mission
planning to ensure that our offerings align with your schedule and budget.
SERVICES
・Dedicated Technical Mission Manager and Customer Support Teams
・Development and Provision of Mission-Specific Interface Control Document (ICD),
Including Verification Planning and Deliverables
・Mission Planning and Launch Scheduling
・Customization of Launch Configuration, Mechanical and Electrical Interfaces for
Dedicated Missions
・Progress Follow-Up Meetings
・Securing Necessary Launch Licenses from Japanese Authorities
・Guidance and Support for Launch Insurance
・Payload Transportation Assistance
・Interstellar Integration Support Personnel
・Accommodation Assistance for Customer's Launch Team
・Launch Site Access and Commute Support
・Photography Operations
・Confirmation of Payload Separation and Provision of State Vector to Customer
EQUIPMENT
・ISO-8 cleanliness level environment (Class 100K)
・Crane for payload integration operations
・Power provided for electrical ground support equipment (110V AC, 50Hz)
・Isopropyl Alcohol, wipes, gloves, hair nets, gowns, work shoes
・Security guards and video monitoring cameras
・Internet connection and standard office equipment for customer office
For information on additional services not listed above that may be required for your
mission, please contact our team.
6.2 P A Y L O A D P R O C E S S I N G W O R K F L O W
This section provides an overview of the payload processing workflow for a typical
mission. A dedicated Interstellar integration team will be assigned to the customer,
working closely to provide comprehensive support throughout the process.
Payload Integration
In this step, the payload will be integrated with the separation system, which will then
be attached to the payload attach fitting of the ZERO launch vehicle. This process also
includes establishing electrical and data connections to the launch vehicle, enabling
communication between the payload and our launch control team.
Fairing Encapsulation
At this stage, the payload, along with the separation system, is integrated with the
payload attach fitting. Once the payload is thoroughly checked, it will be encapsulated
within ZERO's fairing.
6.3 M I S S I O N & L A U N C H T I M E L I N E
The milestones and payload processing schedule for a typical mission are presented
below. If you require an accelerated or extended timeline, Interstellar will work closely
with you to develop mission-specific milestones.
To explore options for a customized timeline that aligns with your mission objectives,
please contact our team.
L-12months
Sign Contract & Mission Kick-off
L-6 months
Launch Campaign Planning Kick-off
L-3 months
Finalize ICD and Mission Interfaces
L-30 days
Payload Arrival at Processing Facility
6.4 M I S S I O N P R O F I L E
The following illustration depicts the standard mission profile and staging sequence for
the ZERO rocket. While typical missions follow a similar profile, variations in timing and
altitude for key events may occur based on mission-specific requirements.
Fairing separation
Main engine
cutoff
MAX Q
Lift off
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
0
+ 62 + 143 + 148 + 153 + 192 + 429 + 3148 + 3149 + 3200
TIME [s]
7.1 T E A M
Interstellar's development team is made up
of highly skilled professionals, each with
extensive expertise and dedication. Our
engineers include those who have worked on
spacecraft development for Japan's
government space agency and experts from
leading global automobile manufacturers. By
merging Japan's industrial technologies,
Interstellar is pioneering a new era of space
exploration.
7.2 A C H I E V E M E N T S
18 ROCKET LAUNCHES
A total of 18 rockets have been manufactured and launched,
including three successful space missions. (as of June 2024)
FIRST IN JAPAN
The first rocket developed by a private Japanese company to
reach space.
7.3 A D V A N T A G E S
ON-DEMAND
Your Destination, Your Timeline
Interstellar facilitates on-demand transportation to the desired orbit and altitude, offering a
dedicated solution that overcomes the limitations of shared transportation for large satellites. By
integrating in-house design, manufacturing, testing, and launch operations, Interstellar significantly
reduces the time from contract to launch.
FLEXIBILITY
Tailored Solutions for Your Needs
In-house design and manufacturing capabilities grant flexibility to meet your needs. Interstellar
customizes the system to match your requirements and handle sudden changes, ensuring high
customer satisfaction.
LOW COST
Globally Competitive Launch Costs
Interstellar offers one of the most competitive price points in the microsatellite launch market.
Striving to reduce prices through the in-house development of core technologies and the active
utilization of cutting-edge technologies such as consumer-grade components and 3D printing.
launch
@istellartech.com