- Edinburgh-based rocket developer completes phase 1 testing for its advanced 30kN engine
- Skyrora also announces the opening of a major European engine test facility.
14 October 2019 – One of Europe’s leading launch vehicle companies, Skyrora, has announced the opening of a European engine test facility and the completion of the first phase of tests for its 30kN rocket engine.
The facility is capable of testing engines up to 70kN for their sub-orbital and orbital launch vehicles. From the new site, Skyrora will continue its progress to completing a full burn and gimbal test, which is required before rockets can be launched into space. Achieving successful engine tests puts Skyrora one step closer to satellites being launched into near-space and orbital altitudes. This is a crucial stage for our small satellite launcher development and places Skyrora in the top 10 percent of small launch vehicle companies in the world.
Skyrora’s sub-orbital and orbital engines are powered by hydrogen peroxide and kerosene, which reduces the cost and emissions from launching. The 30kN engine has been constructed using additive manufacturing techniques and advanced materials. It is nearly 10 times greater in thrust than the 3.5kN upper stage engine which Skyrora successfully test fired at Newquay Airport, Cornwall, in July 2019.
Skyrora has consistently set the pace for progress in the sector as it looks to fulfil the UK Space Agency’s 2021 launch target.
Skyrora’s Chief Executive and founder, Volodymyr Levykin, said: “This is a huge milestone for Skyrora and marks the start of our test program for our larger engines. Our team has worked incredibly hard to develop our engine technologies so Skyrora can help make space more accessible for all. Skyrora will continue to work to ensure the world-changing benefits of space are realised here in the UK and in Europe.”