Antelope Valley Hitches Hopes to Shuttle's Heir : Competing Designs

By PATRICE APODACA

March 17, 1996 12 AM PT

TIMES STAFF WRITER

PALMDALE —

Three contractors are vying to build the X-33, a prototype for a reusable launch vehicle envisioned as a low-cost replacement for the space shuttle. The experimental, single-stage spacecraft would have a lightweight composite structure, reusable cryogenic tanks, and durable thermal protection systems--all capable of withstanding multiple launches and reentries. It would be about 100 feet long, and would be fueled by liquid hydrogen. NASA will select the winning X-33 design in June.

LOCKHEED MARTIN

* Takeoff: Vertical

* Landing: Horizontal

* Highlight: Pilotless. Wingless lifting body

ROCKWELL INTERNATIONAL

* Takeoff: Vertical

* Landing: Horizontal

* Highlight: Pilotless. Most similar to space shuttle.

McDONNELL DOUGLAS/BOEING

* Takeoff: Vertical

* Landing: Vertical

* Highlight: Flight crew of two. Based on McDonnell’s experimental Delta Clipper rocket