Key tests for Skylon spaceplane project

[Thomas]

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Key tests for Skylon spaceplane project

27 April 2012

BBC News - Key tests for Skylon spaceplane project


UK engineers have begun critical tests on a new engine technology designed to lift a spaceplane into orbit.

The proposed Skylon vehicle would operate like an airliner, taking off and landing at a conventional runway.

Its major innovation is the Sabre engine, which can breathe air like a jet at lower speeds but switch to a rocket mode in the high atmosphere.

Reaction Engines Limited (REL) believes the test campaign will prove the readiness of Sabre's key elements.

This being so, the firm would then approach investors to raise the £250m needed to take the project into the final design phase.

"We intend to go to the Farnborough International Air Show in July with a clear message," explained REL managing director Alan Bond.








I had not heard of this project before, It sounds very promising.

[jellodragon]

Looks great... But I don't think EU can afford any more space flights

[aazidane]

skylon is not for military use.

[Thomas]

skylon is not for military use.

Its technology would have military applications. Imagine a bomber that can reach any part of the world in no more then 4 hours. Or even drop its payload from space.

[Audio]

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Looks great... But I don't think EU can afford any more space flights

This is technology that can make space flights considerably cheaper and accessible. Also taking into account that this design has been on the drawing boards for possibly a decade without any excessive government funding i dont think the UK will overstretch itself.

All in all many small "breakthroughs" are to be expected from small(ish) private firms when it comes to Earth orbit stuff in the coming years.

[B]
I had not heard of this project before, It sounds very promising.

It's been around for a long time as a concept. Search for HOTOL on Google if you are interested.