Life Cycle Cost estimation for future reusable access to space systems

The paper introduces an innovative Life-Cycle Cost Estimation Methodology for future reusable access to space systems to assess Research, Development, Test and Evaluation (RDTE), Production and Operating Costs. In particular, the key limitations of TransCost (i.e., the most comprehensive and noteworthy cost methodology currently applicable to Reusable Launch Vehicles (RLVs)) are discussed, highlighting the need to improve Costs Estimation Relationships (CERs) granularity level to allow a proper down-selection of the most cost-effective design options at early design stage. Therefore, the paper suggests a detailed costs breakdown structure, developed widening the more general subdivision proposed in TransCost, discussing the derivation of new CERs at the desired granularity level. Eventually, after selecting a proper case study, the new cost methodology is applied to verify the effective potential or future RLVs to reduce launch costs.