Starchaser Update

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Woomera is being considered for use by the Russian x-prize entrant as well as Starchaser. It makes sense to have a launch/landing site away from America, the ability to go to and from one place to another is essentially what will keep this thing commercially viable. I am a little concerned at the condition of the facility however. On a TV programme a few years ago, some British or Japanese folk were using the range and the buildings and towers appeared to be untouched since the UK's ambition died. This may have been an out of the way spot for hiring to cranks however.

To answer the question on the CHURCHILL Mk3 rocket engine; Production started on the combustion chamber 2 weeks ago. Our propulsion project leader is due to visit the manufacturers soon to inspect production.

Work is also progressing well on the Launch Escape System. We are currently working on a suitable catalyst for our HTP.

Good news on the engines Mike, hope they stay on time on budget! Out of interest, who have you hired to manufacture them and are they the largest rocket engines ever produced in this country? Also,when is the LES test going ahead at Morecombe, I would like to go and see it.

talking bout woomera! is it government owened? and the same for the desserts where other teams will launch from? any chance any team could purchase land or is like national trust land?

just out of topic for a second, quite funny seeing the pic's people have chosen, its almost like a way to support their teams! Especially wit that great nova picy

Robiwan, you should have the Devon flag on yours! Woomera is almost certainly all government land as Australia and America do a lot of live fire weapons tests for their F1-11 and FA/18 aircraft at the facility. Picture it as a Groom dry lake type of place without all the UFO BS surrounding it!

No UFOs in Australia? Surely there are. Especially after about three cans of Foster's, mate.

--Ralph

Fair dinkum cobba! The last thing the Aussies need is another race of explorers coming to kick their butts in the Rugby world cup!

hehehe, too right! first ship should be called wilko! lol, damm shame they can't get some land for their own, does this mean they can not update buildings there or rent them to use on flights then? will they have to take a portable launch tower etc?

Well, with so many teams with different designs and trying new stuff out, I should think they have all factored in bespoke launch towers where required. As for infrastructure on the ground, a couple of air conditioned truck trailers or buses should be adequate and comfortable.

Ralph, anyone prepared to drink Three cans of Fosters can probably see UFOs without them. Everyday probably.