Single-Shot Launcher Systems: Specs & Use Cases

Our light-gas propulsion systems have achieved projectile launch velocities of 2.97 km/sec, equivalent to Mach 9. We hold the world record for high Mach number engine operation in a free-flying scramjet at Mach 8, surpassing the previous record of Mach 5.5. Vertical launch testing has demonstrated velocities exceeding Mach 3, with consistent performance validated across multiple test series at Yuma Proving Ground.

Our system uses hydrogen and oxygen gas as propellant in a precision-controlled combustion process. The light-gas (hydrogen) is heated to extremely high temperatures and pressures, then accelerated through a launch tube to propel the payload vehicle. Our precision gas injection scheme prevents errant detonation in the combustion chamber. The system achieves over 91% propellant capture, significantly reducing muzzle flash and acoustic signature compared to traditional systems.

Unlike traditional rocket propulsion that produces significant carbon emissions, our hydrogen-oxygen light-gas system generates only water vapor as a byproduct, achieving true zero-carbon launches. This clean propulsion technology aligns with global sustainability goals while delivering high performance. Our propellant capture system further minimizes environmental impact by containing over 91% of combustion gases, reducing noise pollution and atmospheric disturbance during launch operations.

Our systems support diverse payload applications from hypersonic vehicle testing to orbital satellite deployment. Current capabilities include suborbital payload delivery to the stratosphere, atmospheric sampling vehicles for mesosphere research, and hypersonic scramjet testing up to Mach 9. Our orbital delivery system is designed to launch satellites and supplies at $100/lb to Low Earth Orbit, with launch windows every 60-90 minutes enabling rapid-response missions.

We conduct comprehensive testing at Yuma Proving Ground in Arizona, a premier U.S. military testing facility. Our testing program includes both horizontal test firing using a 7-inch by 55-foot tube and vertical launch testing with a 54-foot launch tube. Since 2017, we've completed multiple successful test series with varying parameters including gas charge pressures, release peak pressures, vehicle weights, and resulting velocities to validate system performance.

Our technology targets delivery costs of $100/lb to space—dramatically lower than conventional rocket launches that can cost thousands of dollars per pound. This cost reduction comes from simpler system architecture, reusable ground-based infrastructure, and the low cost of hydrogen-oxygen propellant compared to rocket fuel. The ability to launch every 60-90 minutes without extensive vehicle refurbishment further reduces operational costs, making space access economically viable for more missions.

We've designed and tested specialized vehicles for various mission profiles. Our hypersonic test vehicles accommodate scramjet engines for Mach 8-9 flight testing. Atmospheric sampling vehicles feature wound fiberglass bodies that are lightweight, compression-strong during high-g launch, and RF-transparent to protect internal antennas. Suborbital payload carriers deliver research instruments to stratospheric altitudes. Each vehicle design is optimized for its specific mission while withstanding the extreme acceleration forces of light-gas propulsion.

Yes, our system architecture enables launches every 60 to 90 minutes, providing unprecedented rapid-response capability. The ground-based propulsion system eliminates the long preparation cycles required for rocket launches. With 10-minute launch windows and quick turnaround between shots, we can provide 'next-day-air' delivery to space—supporting time-critical missions including satellite deployment, supply delivery to orbital stations, and responsive atmospheric research campaigns that traditional launch systems cannot accommodate.