Incredible plans to build SPACE PLANE launched from 500mph rocket-powered catapult which will take to skies by 2028
A NEW plane could be launched into out of space by a rocket powered sled by 2028.
The new space tech is set to revolutionise the way we travel into the atmosphere.
Plans to build and launch the Radian One, a crew carrying space plane could transform the future of travel, with the plane being catapulted into space via a rocket powered sled at 500mph.
The space plane is designed to launch and land horizontally on a runway, similar to an aeroplane.
The fully reusable plane is designed to be used up to 100 times, carry a crew of two to five astronauts with a 48 hour turnaround time between missions.
The Radian One can also spend five days in space.
Radian CEO and co-founder Richard Humphrey said: “We believe that widespread access to space means limitless opportunities for humankind.
“Over time, we intend to make space travel nearly as simple and convenient as airliner travel.
“We are not focused on tourism; we are dedicated to missions that make life better on our own planet, like research, in-space manufacturing and terrestrial observation, as well as critical new missions like rapid global delivery right here on Earth.”
Radian’s system will be capable of a wide range of space operations including the delivery of people and light cargo.
The new look space craft announcement comes after Radian Aerospace managed to raise $27.5 million in seed funding.
Fine Structure Ventures is one of the investors with a financial stake in the new space technology.
Brett Rome, Venture Partner at Fine Structure Ventures said: “To date, a low cost space transport solution has been lacking that can get humans and cargo to and from space at a highly responsive rate.
“Radian is well positioned to fill that gap with disruptive technology that helps enable the emerging space economy.
“We are confident in the experienced team at Radian, and thrilled to be supporting its mission as Radian works to revolutionise the future of space access.”
Radian is building the first of a new generation of launch vehicle with transformational capability and a wide range of applications.
The company already has launch service agreements with commercial space stations, in-space manufacturers, satellite, and cargo companies, as well as agreements with the U.S. government and selected foreign governments.
NASA previously tried to make a space plane and then abandoned the plan.
A prototype vehicle of Radian One should be ready in 2024.
A full-scale space plane should fly for the first time by the end of the decade.