Sign-up to receive weekly Space email updates with news, commentary, photos, videos and more!
Comprehensive insight, context and analysis of technologies, business developments and operational trends in every segment of global aviation and aerospace.
Aerospace Daily & Defense Report is relied upon for the latest, critical intelligence on programs, budgets and policies in defense, as well as military and civil space.
Incentives can be important drivers of innovation. See how prizes are spurring change.
Check out articles, white papers, interactive features and more.
Learn about new manufacturing technologies that are helping to boost performance and cut costs.
View articles from Aviation Week publications and white papers and views sponsored by Makino
Orbital Technologies Corp. (Orbitec) mounted a flight camera on the flight test vehicle it used Oct. 20 to demonstrate its new "vortex" rocket engine. The results were spectacular, as you can see from this video posted on the company website (QuickTime plugin required). Orbitec will use the results of this test as it develops a 30,000-lb.-thrust upper stage engine burning liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen. It is working with the Air Force Research Lab on the project, but the engine may also find a role for in-space propulsion on civil mission. The vortex engine injects fuel at the top of the combustion chamber at an angle, and liquid oxygen at the bottom. The mixture spins as it burns, which holds it away from the chamber walls. As a result, the walls can be thinner, and don't need expensive cooling channels Credits: Orbitec
Orbital Technologies Corp. (Orbitec) mounted a flight camera on the flight test vehicle it used Oct. 20 to demonstrate its new "vortex" rocket engine.
The results were spectacular, as you can see from this video posted on the company website (QuickTime plugin required).
Orbitec will use the results of this test as it develops a 30,000-lb.-thrust upper stage engine burning liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen. It is working with the Air Force Research Lab on the project, but the engine may also find a role for in-space propulsion on civil mission.
The vortex engine injects fuel at the top of the combustion chamber at an angle, and liquid oxygen at the bottom. The mixture spins as it burns, which holds it away from the chamber walls. As a result, the walls can be thinner, and don't need expensive cooling channels
Credits: Orbitec
Tags: os99, Orbitec, Vortex Engine, Mojave