Astrobotic has successfully tested its new Chakram rotating detonation rocket engine (RDRE) at NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center in Alabama.
Two prototype engines were fired eight times, running for more than 470 seconds without any noticeable damage. One test lasted 300 seconds continuously, likely the longest ever achieved by this type of engine.
Each engine produced over 4,000 pounds of thrust, making Chakram one of the most powerful RDREs ever built.
Why it matters:
Rotating detonation engines are a new kind of rocket technology that could be more efficient and powerful than traditional engines. If they work reliably, they could lower fuel use, reduce costs, and improve future space missions.
Rotating detonation engines are a new kind of rocket technology that could be more efficient and powerful than traditional engines. If they work reliably, they could lower fuel use, reduce costs, and improve future space missions.