Scotland gearing up for launch of 3D-printed rocket engine for orbital flights

Edinburgh-based aerospace startup Skyrora has started conducting full-duration tests of its 3D-printed 70kN engine. The updated design includes an enhanced engine cooling system and can be built 66% faster with a 20% cost reduction. Skyrora aims to test parameters including life cycle and full operational envelope over 250 seconds of operation, the same time required to reach orbit. The engine was produced in Europe’s largest hybrid printer and will be a critical component of the Skyrora XL, the company’s three-stage light-class rocket to launch payloads into solar synchronous orbit. The engine will be the first commercially qualified one to use a closed-cycle staged combustion system, according to Skyrora, testing of which is happening in its manufacturing and testing facilities in Scotland.