Sat, Sep 05, 2009
Engine Stop, Restart And Cooling Systems Completed, Tested
XCOR Aerospace announced Thursday that it has reached several
significant milestones in the 5K18 rocket engine test program. This
is the engine that powers XCOR’s Lynx suborbital
spacecraft. The engine can be seen running in several newly
released videos including a video demonstrating the very stable
“shock diamond” pattern visible in the engine’s
supersonic exhaust.
“Like all of our rocket engines, this engine has
demonstrated the ability to be stopped and re-started using our
safe and reliable spark torch ignition system”, said XCOR CEO
Jeff Greason. “The basic cooling design has also been
completed and the engine is able to run continuously at thermal
equilibrium. With those milestones reached, the 5K18 test
program is now moving forward into a second phase of tuning and
optimization, in which we will also greatly increase our cumulative
run time.”
Data and test results from the Lynx engine program are being
used by XCOR and certain customers to develop a deeper
understanding of operationally responsive spacelift procedures.
These procedures can then be applied to future rocket powered
vehicles. XCOR and its customers now have important
information that will aid in the development of the unique
requirements of operationally responsive high performance manned
and unmanned rocket systems.
Testing of the 5K18 rocket engine is continuing in parallel with
several other key Lynx system components, including wind tunnel
testing at AFRL facilities and development of the Lynx pressure
cabin at XCOR’s main facilities in Mojave, CA.
“These additional firings and milestones continue to
demonstrate XCOR’s ability to deliver safe and truly
innovative rocket propulsion technology that will one day
revolutionize space access by enhancing readiness levels for flight
from years to days or even hours, and driving down costs and
increasing safety by orders of magnitude”, said XCOR Chief
Operating Officer, Andrew Nelson.
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