The world's largest aircraft Roc has successfully launched the TA-0 airframe and is preparing for hypersonic launch
Stratolaunch, which specialises in hypersonic flight, has tested the Talon-A glider. As part of the tests, a prototype called TA-0 was successfully launched, which has no engine.
Here's What We Know
The test took place on 13 May. The Roc, the world's largest aeroplane, took part in them. It is used as a launch platform for hypersonic and aerospace vehicles. For Stratolaunch, it was the second test at the U.S. Space Force's Vandenberg, California, Western Proving Ground.
Roc has returned to base and you'll notice something missing from the center wing. We're excited to announce we successfully completed separation of TA-0, bringing us closer than ever to hypersonic flight. Congrats to the team & thanks to the Western Range for their support! pic.twitter.com/8WfIuzufn3
- Stratolaunch (@Stratolaunch) May 13, 2023
The test flight of TA-0 lasted for 4 hours and 8 minutes. It demonstrated whether the hypersonic vehicle could safely separate from the central pylon of the Roc aircraft. The test also tested telemetry between the technology in the air and communications on the ground.
Zachary Krevor, CEO and president of Stratolaunch, called the test "exceptional". He thanked the Space Force base management for the opportunity to test the aircraft.
The company has now begun preparations for its first launch, which will achieve hypersonic speed. For this, specialists will develop a prototype TA-1, which will be equipped with an engine. Tests will take place before the end of 2023.
Stratolaunch signed an agreement with the US Missile Defense Agency (MDA). The company's gliders will be used as hypersonic targets. The company will be able to use the gliders to test air defences designed to intercept hypersonic weapons, and the US military will be able to use them to test their ability to counteract hypersonic weapons.
Source: PR Newswire
