Kelly Space & Technology Inc.

Core Business and Technology

KST s fundamental vision is twofold: to commercialize technologies that facilitate large-scale commercial space development and to transfer these advanced space-derived technologies to beneficial use in terrestrial applications. The company s operations are largely centered around its Aerospace Research & Development Center ARDC, which serves as an incubator for leading-edge technologies.

Aerospace and Reusable Launch Vehicle RLV Technology

A cornerstone of KST s technological portfolio is its patented tow-launch system for a reusable launch vehicle known as the EXPRESS Spaceplane, also referred to as the Astroliner.

• EXPRESS Spaceplane Astroliner: This is a manned, fly-back winged vehicle designed to reduce the cost and risk of accessing space. The key innovation is the launch method, where the vehicle is towed from a runway as a glider by a tow aircraft, such as a Boeing 747, to a predetermined launch altitude, minimizing the need for the EXPRESS vehicle to expend its own propellant in the dense lower atmosphere. This approach leverages mature, flight-proven components to achieve a low-risk, high-margin RLV system.
• Propulsion Systems: KST is engaged in the research and development of rocket engine technology and provides indoor jet and rocket engine testing facilities.

Environmental and Dynamics Testing Services

KST s Environmental and Dynamics Test Operations is a major revenue-generating line of business and directly aligns with the Environment GreenTech sector by supporting rigorous product qualification across multiple industries, including Environmental Remediation. The company offers extensive testing and evaluation services to ensure products and components meet stringent standards like MIL-STD-810, RTCA DO-160, ASTM, ASME, and IEEE.

• Test Capabilities: KST possesses state-of-the-art test facilities capable of performing a wide range of simulated environmental and dynamic conditions, including:
  • Vibration Testing
  • Shock and Impact Testing e.g., Bird Strike Testing using a pneumatic chicken gun
  • Temperature and Humidity Cycling
  • Thermal Shock
  • Altitude and High Pressure Testing
  • Explosive and Rapid Decompression Testing
  • Corrosives and Salt Fog Testing
  • Sand and Dust Testing
  • Wind, Rain, Hail, Snow, and Ice Environmental Testing
  • Solar and Ultraviolet Light Exposure
  • Flammability Testing
  • Fluids Testing for high flow and high pressure environments, ranging from steam to cryogenics.

Advanced Terrestrial Technology Products and Services

KST has commercialized several advanced technologies derived from its core aerospace R&D for application in homeland security, defense, and industrial markets.

• Ballistic Testing and Protection: The company offers conventional and unconventional ballistic testing and has developed the Enhanced Ballistic Protection System EBPS. The EBPS is a specialized armor system utilizing thermoplastic or carbon fiber-based manufacturing processes, designed for both light and heavy armor applications. It provides resistance to blast, fragmentation, and ballistic projectiles, including armor-piercing rounds, with protection levels up to NIJ IV and 20mm fragments.
• Laser Technology Systems: KST s technology transfer programs include laser systems for specific industrial and security applications:
  • Laser Coating Removal Systems: Utilized for precise removal of coatings, which can be essential in environmental cleaning and surface preparation tasks.
  • Burn Debridement Laser.
• Security and Life Sciences: The ARDC is a hub for projects involving advanced explosive detectors and biohazard elimination systems.

The company leverages a team of experienced managers, engineers, scientists, and technicians with backgrounds in space launch systems, intercontinental ballistic missile systems, and advanced technology programs. This expertise allows KST to provide comprehensive engineering and documentation services, including the creation of test plans and procedures.