- Stratolaunch conducts first powered test flight of hypersonic research vehicle off California coast, reaching high supersonic speeds.
- Company's CEO emphasizes collection of valuable data during flight, with specific details undisclosed due to proprietary agreements.
- Successful test flight marks milestone in development of privately funded, reusable hypersonic test capability in the United States.
Stratolaunch successfully conducted the first powered test flight of an unmanned hypersonic research vehicle off the California coast, reaching high supersonic speeds. The company's massive carrier aircraft, Roc, released the Talon-A-1 vehicle, powered by a liquid-fuel rocket engine, which descended into the ocean as planned.
What to know: Stratolaunch conducted the first powered test flight of a new unmanned craft for hypersonic research, marking a significant success. The vehicle, named Talon-A-1, achieved high supersonic speeds approaching Mach 5, which is five times the speed of sound. The company's Chief Executive Officer, Zachary Krevor, highlighted the collection of valuable data during the flight, emphasizing the importance to their customers. Specific details regarding altitude and speed were not disclosed due to proprietary agreements with clients. The Talon was launched from the company's massive carrier aircraft Roc off the central coast of California and ended its flight by descending into the ocean as planned.
Looking ahead: The primary objectives of the flight included a safe air-launch release of the vehicle, engine ignition, acceleration, sustained climb in altitude, and a controlled water landing. This successful test flight represents a major milestone in the development of the United States' first privately funded, reusable hypersonic test capability. Stratolaunch, based at Mojave Air and Space Port, conducted two captive-carry flights prior to this powered test flight. The company's future goal is to develop a reusable version of the Talon that can land on a runway for further use.
Deeper details: Stratolaunch's carrier aircraft Roc, with a wingspan of 385 feet and twin fuselages, played a crucial role in launching the Talon for hypersonic research. Originally developed by Microsoft co-founder Paul G. Allen for space launches, the aircraft was repurposed for hypersonic research after Allen's passing. Stratolaunch has secured flight contracts with the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory and the Navy's Multiservice Advanced Capability Test Bed program, positioning itself as a key player in the field of reusable hypersonic technology.
