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During the preliminary design of space transportation systems the vehicle dynamics are commonly reduced to a pointmass model for definition of the flight trajectory. While this approach effectively reduces the number of model parameters in the design process, it neglects the rotational dynamics of the vessel completely. Since the rotational degrees of freedom (DOF) have a significant influence on the vehicle's controllability, a sole analysis of the translational dynamics is insufficient to assess the general feasibility of the concept. This study investigates the ascent flight trajectory of the SpaceLiner vehicle, a concept for a hypersonic suborbital space plane, based on a newly developed 6-DOF flight dynamics simulation to determine the influence of the rotational dynamics on the vehicle's controllability and performance. The first part of this paper will focus on the developed vehicle model which features a transient inertia model as well as an algorithmic-designed flight control system. The second part will present several simulations of nominal and off-nominal ascent trajectories. Based on the results it will be shown that SpaceLiner's thrust vector control system is sufficiently dimensioned for the investigated mission scenarios, while the vehicle performance is only slightly influenced by the rotational dynamics.

After successful completion of the MRR, technical progress of the SpaceLiner ultra-high-speed rocketpropelled passenger transport is achieved in Phase A conceptual design work. Following geometry refinement the structural design is maturing based on extensive trade-offs. Aerodynamics are investigated by numerical CFD-simulations of the two winged stages and will be supported by windtunnel tests. Aerodynamic control surfaces of the passenger cabin and rescue capsule and its subsystems are defined. Alternative options for the capsule with innovative morphing shapes are critically investigated taking into account system aspects, structural design, and advanced CFD-simulations. Potential intercontinental flight routes, considering range-safety and sonic boom constraints as well as good reachability from major business centers, are evaluated and flight guidance schemes are established. Extensions to this trajectory model are implemented to investigate the attitude dynamics and related controllability issues of the asymmetric launcher configuration. The space transportation role of the SpaceLiner concept as a TSTO-launcher is now addressed in technical detail. Subscripts, Abbreviations CAD computer aided design CEDRE Calcul d'Écoulements Diphasiques Réactifs pour l'Énergétique (CFD tool of ONERA) CFD

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