Alcor (rocket engine)

Alcor (also known as Zebra or 30-KS-8000) was a solid rocket engine, originally developed by Aerojet for the US Air Force as the third stage of the Athena test vehicle.¹²³ Its main appeal was a high mass fraction due to the Aerowrap chamber fabrication process. However, production issues with joint sections limited its use. Alcor engines were used from 1960 to 1977.¹

The original version was used on a series of rockets: Blue Scout Jr, Blue Scout Junior, Astrobee 200, Blue Scout Jr SLV-1C, RAM B, Blue Scout Jr SLV-1B(m), Athena RTV, Strypi VI and Strypi VIIAR.¹

Initially produced with polyurethane propellant, it transitioned to polybutadiene, leading to the Alcor 1A (23KS-11000) variant.¹⁴⁵ This variant featured improved nozzle, chamber insulation, and expansion ratio, increasing the mass fraction from 0.886 to 0.906. Both Alcor 1 and 1A were used in Astrobee 500 and 1500 vehicles.¹ Alcor 1A was used on the Athena H.⁴⁶

Another improvement occurred late in 1965, with the introduction of an all welded titanium chamber, resulting in the Alcor 1B variant.¹⁷⁸ Alcor 1B was used on the Strypi VIIR.⁷