How Rocket Rings Help Boosters Land Safely

Blue Origin's patent for a ring-shaped structure on a rocket that helps control airflow during descent and assists in separating rocket stages.

What it covers

This patent describes an annular (ring-shaped) element attached to the exterior of a rocket. During the rocket's ascent, this ring is typically shielded by the upper stage to reduce drag. During descent, the ring acts as an aerodynamic stabilizer or flow-control device, allowing air to pass between the ring and the rocket body to help guide the booster as it returns to Earth. The patent also details how the ring can be used to manage exhaust flow during the separation of the first and second stages, potentially allowing for separation without complex mechanical actuators.

What it doesn't cover

• —Does not cover general rocket landing legs or grid fins used for steering.
• —Does not cover rockets that lack an annular or ring-shaped external structure.
• —Does not cover methods of landing that rely solely on mechanical actuators for stage separation.

The clever bit

The ring serves a dual purpose: it acts as a passive aerodynamic stabilizer during descent and simultaneously functions as a duct or flow-guide for exhaust gases during stage separation, simplifying the mechanical design.

Why it matters

Reusable rockets are essential for reducing the cost of space access. This patent represents a specific engineering approach to the challenge of returning a booster stage to Earth safely, focusing on aerodynamic stability and efficient stage separation to minimize the hardware needed for recovery.

Real-world examples

• 1.Blue Origin New Glenn booster stage concepts