Towards the next step: SpaceLiner 8 pre-definition

The SpaceLiner fully reusable launcher and ultra-high-speed rocket-propelled passenger transport is in conceptual design phase. The ongoing concept evolution is addressing system aspects of the next configuration release 8. The winged, reusable upper stage, almost untouched since 2016 is moving now in focus of promising redesign options described in this paper. The SpaceLiner cabin integration is an important aspect to be addressed as well as the feasibility of performing multiple missions compliant with noise and sonic-boom constraints. The systematic assessment of different critical separation cases revealed that the aerodynamic unstable design of the capsule is not acceptable and needs to be redesigned for SpaceLiner 8. Further, the nose section of a future SLC should include part of the separation motors and thus help improving stability of the emergency-case separation maneuvers