Development of C/C composites for OREX (Orbital Reentry Experimental vehicle) nose cap

The development of multiple-use type winged space shuttle planes (HOPE: H-II Orbiting Plane) is underway by NASDA (the National Aerospace Development Agency) and NAL (the National Aerospace Laboratories). In developing the HOPE, an Orbital Reentry Experimental vehicle (OREX) was mounted on the Number 1 H-II Rocket in order to collect basic data such as aerodynamic heat upon reentry to atmosphere. Carbon/carbon composite materials that have heat resistance of 1,600° C were used for a nose cap located at the nose tip part with the intention of using them in the HOPE. Because C/C composites are superior in specific strength and specific moduli with high heat resistance, they were adopted in the US Spaceshuttles. We were charged with manufacturing a nose cap made of C/C composites with a diameter of 1.7 m which is in the world's largest class. The OREX was launched from the Tanegashima Space Center in February, 1995, and the expected performance was attained, thus verifying the characteristics of a nose cap made of C/C composites.