SFS News: SpaceDev Flies Prototype Hybrid Rocket Lunar ...

(SpaceDev) - Project is first to demonstrate applied throttling capability

POWAY, CA – SpaceDev, Inc. (OTCBB: SPDV) announced today that it has concluded the first phase of development on its hybrid rocket powered lunar lander prototype, with a successful flight test. The effort was supported by the International Lunar Observatory Association (ILOA) led by Steve Durst, who envision using the technology to bring their ILO spacecraft to a soft landing on the South Pole of the Moon, where it will perform various astrophysics and communication functions.



Lander Mid-Flight

During the flight test, the lander prototype vehicle’s four hybrid rocket motors were ignited and throttled via radio control, their thrust adjusted in real time to achieve lift-off, ascended to approximately 35 feet, hovered, descended, and landed softly. A video of the flight may be seen here - Lander Test Video.

This test marked the first ever of a hybrid rocket powered lander vehicle and demonstrated applied throttling, a key capability of SpaceDev’s reliable, safe, and non-toxic hybrid propulsion technology. “This is an exciting project that has shown not only the versatility of our hybrid motors, but also SpaceDev’s high levels of responsiveness and efficiency,â€

Looks very cool. Stability of the vehicle is especially impressive.

I'm wondering why did they release such cool video with 6 months delay.

It would seem reasonable to announce success as soon as possible.

Anyway, it's nice to see another working hardware.

Very impressive. Any word on when this vehicle will actually go to the Moon?