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The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) has announced that it has demonstrated for the first time in space how a “rotary combustion engine” works. The novelty of the technologies in question is that such systems achieve significant thrust using much less fuel compared to conventional rocket engines, which is quite advantageous for space exploration.
On July 27, the Japanese agency launched a pair of futuristic propulsion systems into space to perform the first tests. They were launched from the Uchinoura Space Center aboard the S-520-31, a single-stage rocket capable of lifting a payload of 220 lbs (100 kg) well above 186 miles (300 km). After recovering the rocket from the ocean, the JAXA engineering team analyzed the data and confirmed the success of the mission, which placed the new system at an estimated altitude of (146 miles) 234.9 km .
The rotary detonation engine uses a series of controlled explosions that travel around an annular channel in a continuous loop. This process generates a large amount of super efficient thrust from a much smaller engine using a lot less fuel – which also means sending less weight on a space launch. According to JAXA, it has the potential to be a game-changer for deep space exploration.
The rocket began test demonstrations after separation from the first stage, burning the rotary detonation motor for six seconds, while a second pulsed detonation motor operated for two seconds on three occasions. The pulse engine uses detonation waves to burn off the mixture of fuel and oxidant.
When the rocket was recovered after the demonstration, it was discovered that the rotary engine produced around 500 Newtons of thrust, which is only a fraction of what conventional rocket engines can achieve in space.
According to JAXA engineers, the successful test in space significantly increased the possibility that the detonation engine could be used in practical applications, including rocket engines for deep space exploration, rocket engines. first floor and two story, and more. Engines could indeed allow us to travel deep into space using a fraction of the fuel and weight, which will be essential in interplanetary travel.
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