Cost Analysis and Estimation of the Space Rider Re-entry Module

The objective of this research project is to perform a cost estimation of the re-entry module within the Space Rider system, designed and developed by Thales Alenia Space in Turin, Italy. Space Rider is a reusable space transportation system designed to offer affordable access to space. It includes a re-entry module capable of landing and being prepared for subsequent missions, significantly reducing costs. The study begins with an overview of the current state-of-the-art in space systems analogous to Space Rider. Subsequently, various methodologies for estimating costs of space systems are explored to determine the most suitable approach for this specific case. Initially, existing cost models are analysed to assess both their effectiveness and applicability. Then, novel cost estimating relationships at the subsystem level are established based on already existing Cost Estimating Relationships. The selected methodology is inherently parametric in nature, tailored, and specifically applied to each subsystem within the re-entry module of Space Rider. The application of this method provides cost estimates encompassing Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation, as well as production costs for each subsystem. The results are ultimately compared and discussed in relation to the findings obtained from another research project, which aimed to estimate the re-entry module of Space Rider at the system level. This comparative analysis provides a comprehensive evaluation, highlighting similarities, differences, and potential improvements between the two sets of results.