Valiant Space successfully tests new rocket engine

Australian rocket company, Valiant Space, has successfully fired its ‘Momentum’ liquid fueled rocket engine, claimed to be the first commercially developed such engine in Australian history.

The engine was ignited on 15 March at Beyond the Blue Aerospace’s launch and test facility, Funny Farm Space, north of Goondiwindi, Queensland.

Black Sky Aerospace, known for their own rocket launch vehicles, provided logistical support, local expertise and independent evaluation, according to director, Blake Nicolic.

Nikolic said: “Black Sky Aerospace is actively supporting sovereign manufactured, leapfrog research and development to strengthen Australia’s role in providing access to space.”

The trial follows a year of successful system integration and inert propellant testing by Valiant, and is the start of an even bigger testing campaign.

Valiant Space CEO, Mr Andrew Uscinski, said: “…the test couldn’t have come at a better time.

“We are really excited about our next phase of development.”

The Brisbane based company is developing rocket propulsion technologies to help propel the next generation of spacecraft to and from the surface of the Moon.

Following this test, Valiant Space will integrate the engine into an Earth-based rocket that will simulate lunar descent, landing, and traversing manoeuvres.

This live firing is an important step towards Australia being able to put scientific and commercial payloads on the moon, allowing active participation in NASA’s Moon to Mars program.

Valiant Space is participating in the University of Queensland’s iLab startup accelerator program, as part of the UQ Ventures initiative.

Picture: Black Sky Space

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