This engine stands out for its ability to generate a strong thrust of 4,000 pounds of force (lbf) at sea level. Additionally, the engine’s design prioritizes usability by employing propellants that are both easy to store and handle. Kerosene and hydrogen peroxide are the chosen fuels, making this engine a practical and reliable option for various applications.
American aerospace company Ursa Major has achieved a key step in the development of their new engine, the Draper. The company recently finalized ground testing for this innovative engine design.
Ursa Major Makes Breakthrough in Hypersonic Engine Development
Ursa Major achieved a significant milestone in March with the successful hot-firing of their Draper engine prototype at their Colorado facility. The engine underwent over 50 ignition tests, each lasting several seconds.
This innovative liquid engine is designed for a wide range of applications. Its capabilities include hypersonic defense systems, in-space propulsion for spacecraft, and on-demand launch possibilities.
Ursa Major announced the Draper engine’s development in May of last year. Since then, the company has made impressive progress, exceeding their initial development timeline. This achievement signifies a significant step forward for the engine.
New Hypersonic Engine Completes Ground Testing
The Draper engine boasts a propellant combination of hydrogen peroxide and kerosene, both storable at regular temperatures. This eliminates the need for cryogenic fuels, which require super cold temperatures to stay liquid. This innovative approach simplifies storage and handling of the propellants, significantly reducing logistical challenges and associated costs.
The Draper engine boasts two key features that set it apart: a “closed catalyst cycle” and a versatile propellant system.
The closed-loop design offers operational flexibility. As reported by SpaceNews, the engine can run solely on decomposed hydrogen peroxide or utilize a combination of both hydrogen peroxide and kerosene. This adaptability allows for optimized performance based on mission requirements.
Draper’s thrust profile is another highlight. It strikes a balance between power and fuel efficiency, making it ideal for precise maneuvers in space. Unlike traditional engines that can lead to premature fuel depletion, Draper’s design enables efficient adjustments without wasting propellant. This translates to potentially longer mission lifespans for satellites and spacecraft.
With extended operational capabilities, the Draper engine could revolutionize space exploration. Missions could benefit from longer observation periods, increased data collection, and the ability to reposition satellites for more targeted functionality.
Ursa Major’s Draper Engine: Progress Made, Further Development on the Horizon
While achieving successful ground testing signifies a significant milestone, Ursa Major acknowledges the need for further development before the Draper engine is fully launch-ready. The company plans to conduct additional tests to ensure the engine meets the rigorous standards for spaceflight.
Ursa Major acknowledges the engine’s potential use in defensive space technologies, particularly as other countries develop anti-satellite capabilities. While the press release doesn’t explicitly mention specific applications, it highlights Draper’s role in “the need for defensive technology.”
The design itself draws inspiration from Ursa Major’s previous Hadley engine. Draper merges the favorable storage characteristics of solid rocket motors with the superior controllability offered by liquid engines. This combination could be instrumental in maneuvering spacecraft for defensive purposes.