Light Gas Gun Pressure Valve Technology Explained

Green Launch's light gas gun has achieved projectile velocities of 2.97 km/sec, equivalent to Mach 9. This was accomplished using a single-stage light-gas combustion system. In vertical launch testing, the 54-foot launch tube accelerated payloads to velocities exceeding Mach 3, and scramjet tests recorded free-flying operation at Mach 8—a world record.

A light gas gun uses a lightweight gas—typically hydrogen—as the propellant medium instead of conventional gunpowder. When the pressure valve releases, rapid combustion of hydrogen and oxygen accelerates the projectile down the launch tube at extreme velocities. Green Launch's precision gas injection scheme prevents errant detonation in the combustion chamber, ensuring controlled, repeatable launches.

Light gas guns achieve very high muzzle velocities using a fraction of the mechanical complexity of rocket systems. Green Launch's hydrogen-oxygen propellant produces only water vapor, eliminating carbon emissions. The system can reset and relaunch within 60–90 minutes and delivers payloads to orbit at $100/lb—significantly cheaper than traditional chemical rockets.

Green Launch's system is designed to deliver a broad range of payloads including small satellites, atmospheric research instruments, hypersonic test vehicles, and supplies to the ISS. The technology supports sub-orbital trajectories for scientific research as well as Low Earth Orbit delivery, with atmospheric sampling vehicles designed for mesosphere and ionosphere access.

The pressure valve is a critical component that controls the precise timing of gas release into the combustion chamber. Green Launch's system uses a precision gas injection scheme to manage charge pressures at exact parameters. Proper valve operation prevents premature detonation, ensures consistent launch velocities, and enables the high repeatability demonstrated across 16+ successful test shots.

All field testing is conducted at Yuma Proving Ground (YPG) in Arizona, a U.S. Army facility equipped for high-velocity projectile testing. Green Launch has completed multiple test series there since 2017, including horizontal shots achieving 2 km/s and the historic first vertical launch in December 2021 that sent a projectile into the stratosphere.

Yes. Green Launch's propellant is a hydrogen and oxygen gas mixture whose sole combustion byproduct is water vapor, resulting in zero carbon emissions per launch. The system also captures over 91% of propellant post-launch, dramatically reducing waste, muzzle flash, and acoustic impact—making it one of the most environmentally responsible launch technologies in development today.

Green Launch targets aerospace and defense organizations, scientific research bodies such as the National Science Foundation, and satellite manufacturers seeking affordable orbital access. The company's sub-orbital services suit atmospheric scientists needing mesosphere and ionosphere data, while its orbital delivery capability at $100/lb appeals to small satellite operators and space logistics customers needing frequent, cost-effective launches.