Rocket Motor Testing Continues
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May 21, 2012 - MOJAVE, Calif. - SpaceShipTwo will be powered by a unique hybrid rocket motor, which is currently under development at Scaled Composites. The twin fuselage and central payload area configuration allow for easy access to WhiteKnightTwo and the spaceship for passengers and crew; the design also aids operational efficiencies and turnaround times. SpaceShipTwo utilizes the unique feather configuration that allowed SpaceShipOne to successfully re-enter the atmosphere.
On April 17th, 2012 the 10th “HOTFIRE” test of the SpaceShip Two rocket motor was successfully carried out. Testing of the final motor configuration is proceeding at a rapid pace as the team at Scaled Composites fine tunes the innovative propulsion system that will carry Virgin Galactic’s customers into space. A brief summary of the test follws:
Date: 17 April 12
Objectives:
Tenth full scale flight design RM2 hot-fire.
Continued evaluation of all systems and components:
- Pressurization
- Valve/Injector
- Fuel formulation and geometry
- Nozzle
- Structure
- Performance
Results:
All objectives completed. Performed targeted 40 second hot fire as planned. Duration of burn chosen to allow examination of internal geometry.
About Scaled Composites
Founded in 1982, Scaled Composites specializes in the design, fabrication and flight testing of
prototype aircraft and spacecraft from composite materials. Scaled is a project-oriented company that
offers services within a concept-to-completion environment. Their services include conceptual design,
aerodynamic and structural analysis and design, tooling, fabrication, structural testing, flight testing and
simulation.
For More Information Please Contact:
CRAIG CURRAN , ASA
Galactic Experiences By DePrez, DePrez Travel Bureau, Inc.
585-442-8900 X224