Copenhagen Suborbitals announced the the successful static test firing of their XLR-2 hybrid rocket motor on October 19th, 2008. The company states: “Our mission is very simple. We are working towards launching a human being into space.”
The rocket motor is comprised of a system that injects liquid oxygen into a solid epoxy core to generate combustion and thrust. The victim astronaut assumes the position a semi-squatting position with their head in the clear plastic nose cone. The passenger compartment is lifted into a parabolic trajectory topping the magic altitude of 100 km. I guess you get to call yourself an astronaut if you fly above 100 km.
( You see, the purpose of the rocket motor is to deliver the passenger to the scene of the disaster.)
I think I’ll pass my ticket to someone else this time.
All you need now is a beer keg, an air tank and a midget.
Despite my sarcastic take on this micro space program, I have to admit that I am impressed with their progress and the choice in rocket motor. It’s pretty simple rocket technology.
Rick- The second generation model will feature a tandem midget configuration with a beer tap.
Exhaust shock cones diagnose exhaust velocity. It’s mediocre. You want the minimal average molecular weight in exhaust. Space Scuttle liquid engines are run way hydrogen-rich. They could add dispersed lithium hydride. Bwa ha ha!
Dont real men (and NASA) use polyurethane? Heck, slap in an open bore cylinder of paraffin with about 1 wt-% each dispersed carbon black and water (Aerosol-OT for inverse micelles; juice the burning interface) plus 5% Vybar 103 (raises melting point). Mythbusters used nitrous oxide/salami to great effect. One wonders about aluminzed salami.