Canadian hybrid rocket to launch from outback SA

Canadian rocket manufacturer Reaction Dynamics has signed a contract with Southern Launch to conduct the inaugural launch and flight of their RE-102 hybrid rocket engine and Aurora vehicle from the Koonibba Test Range in outback South Australia in 2025.

The Aurora suborbital mission will serve as the maiden flight qualification test for Reaction Dynamics’ rocket engine within the vacuum of space.

This two-stage vehicle is designed to reach an altitude of 125 km above Earth, providing critical performance data and demonstrating Reaction Dynamics’ technological capabilities in preparation for future orbital missions, according to a statement.

Reaction Dynamics CEO Bachar Elzein said: “We believe that the RE-102 hybrid rocket engine will be the most efficient hybrid rocket engine in the world.

“Extensive hot fire tests have shown the that the engine is able to maintain performance during prolonged burn periods thanks to our patented innovations.”

The Aurora suborbital rocket is 7.3 metres tall and will launch from the Mid-Range Launch Rail that Southern Launch has onsite at the Koonibba Test Range.

Reaction Dynamics’ RE-102 hybrid rocket engine is said to be the first hybrid propulsion system family to incorporate a regeneratively-cooled thrust chamber assembly.

Southern Launch CEO Lloyd Damp said: “We are proud to be hosting the Aurora suborbital mission from the Koonibba Test Range.

“This mission will test a novel hybrid propulsion system which will ultimately result in technological breakthroughs that will propel the entire space industry forward.”

Reaction Dynamics will visit the Koonibba Test Range later this year ahead of the Aurora mission.

Picture: Reaction Dynamics hybrid rocket engine