SCIENCE

Mojave Desert firm begins hypersonic launcher tests

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United States-based Longshot Space Technologies, a startup developing a hydrogen-powered “space gun” launcher for orbital payloads, will begin a new series of hypersonic tests for the U.S. military in the Mojave Desert over the next month. The company plans to fire its launcher between 12 and 20 times during the campaign, using the system to accelerate test payloads to speeds between Mach 5 and Mach 7. The effort is designed to demonstrate that the launcher can reliably achieve hypersonic velocities, providing performance data on how test articles behave under the extreme conditions associated with high-speed flight. United States defense officials currently lack affordable and frequent platforms to assess the performance and durability of emerging hypersonic weapons systems, and the Longshot campaign aims to address this gap. The test series is supported in part by a previously awarded $1.9 million U.S. Air Force contract. Data from the Mojave Desert firings will inform the design of an operational-scale launcher intended to handle payloads of up to 100 kilograms. By relying on hydrogen as a primary fuel source, the company seeks to provide a low-cost, repeatable testing environment as an alternative to the expensive and limited hypersonic flight-test programs now used by the military.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

Previously U.S. Air Force grants $1.9 million award
Recently Longshot develops hydrogen-powered launcher concept
Over the next month Mojave tests planned
During campaign conduct 12 to 20 firings
During tests reach Mach 5 to Mach 7
After tests assess launcher performance data
Subsequently design operational-scale 100-kilogram launcher
Long term provide alternative hypersonic test platform

Why This Matters to You

Longshot's hypersonic tests could lead to cheaper, more frequent testing of high-speed systems. This could speed up the development of new technologies. If you're interested in space or defense tech, keep an eye on these tests.

The Bottom Line

Longshot Space Technologies is pushing the boundaries with its hydrogen-powered launcher. It's a big step towards affordable and frequent hypersonic testing. If you know someone into space or military tech, this is worth forwarding.