In a significant development for the UK’s space industry, Edinburgh-based firm, Skyrora, is taking a substantial leap forward, testing its innovative 3D-printed rocket engine, printed on their Skyprint 2 machine. This game-changing move promises to revolutionise UK space launches.
Boosting Efficiency and Reducing Costs: The Skyprint 2 Machine
The 3D-printed rocket engine, manufactured with Skyrora’s Skyprint 2 machine, is designed to halve production time and considerably cut costs. This development redefines efficiency in the space sector. Skyrora’s CEO and founder, Volodymyr Levykin, proudly stated, “With our purpose-built rocket manufacturing and testing facilities in Scotland, we are bringing as much of the launch value chain as possible home.”
Rigorous Testing to Validate the Innovation of a 3D-printed rocket engine
The new engines will undergo intense trials at the UK’s largest rocket testing facility, located in Midlothian. These tests, scheduled to run every week throughout the summer, will task the engine to run for 250 seconds — the exact duration needed for a real mission to reach orbit.
Scaling Up Production: The Skyrora XL
Subject to successful trials, Skyrora plans to escalate production and proceed with further testing of its three-stage launch vehicle, the Skyrora XL. This giant rocket, standing 23-metres tall with a payload capacity of 315kg, is one of the focal points of the company’s ambitious space exploration initiatives.
3D-printed rocket engine: Recognition and Future Prospects
The 3D-printed rocket engine has already garnered attention and recognition from the UK and EU space agencies. Dr. Paul Bate, the UK Space Agency boss, described the engines as “innovative” and “setting new standards”.
Learning from Past Failures: The Case of Virgin Orbit
This technological breakthrough arrives in the wake of an unsuccessful orbital launch attempt from UK soil by Virgin Orbit, which resulted in the company’s bankruptcy. This event underscores the significant risks involved in space exploration and emphasises the importance of Skyrora’s 3D-printed rocket engine in potentially circumventing such challenges.
Skyrora 3D-printed rocket engine: The Dawn of a New Era in Space Exploration
With Skyrora leading the way, the UK’s space industry stands on the brink of a new era. As anticipation builds, we invite you to share your thoughts. How do you perceive this technological leap? What are your views on the revolutionary potential of the 3D-printed rocket engine? Share your thoughts and comments below!