Since the 1950s rocket engineers have toyed with the idea of a novel engine design that could –- in theory –- revolutionize the way we conceive of space travel. The aerospike might sound like ...

The aerospike engine—specifically the conical aerospike—looks quite similar to a conventional rocket and functions using largely the same principle: exchanging thermal energy for kinetic energy.

For decades, an engine concept known as aerospike has been an elusive rival to the traditional bell-nozzle rocket. Although capable of delivering higher payloads while decreasing overall rocket ...

Showing how far AI engineering has come, a new aerospike engine burning oxygen and kerosene capable of 1,100 lb (5,000 N) of thrust has successfully been hot-fired for 11 seconds. It was designed ...

Aiming to bounce back from an accident while testing its demonstrator MIRA, German startup Polaris Aerospace is on course to develop the next iteration of its demonstrator modules. The MIRA I ...

Aerospike rocket engines are the stuff of legend in the space industry. Conceived in the 1960s, their unique spiked-nozzle design promises better efficiency, reusability, and performance at all ...

Then, in January 2025, Leap 71 really pushed the envelope by designing one of the most challenging and elusive rocket engines in the aerospace industry: a cryogenic aerospike thruster, an engine ...

The Mira prototype series relies on jet engines for takeoff, cruise, and landing, while incorporating an aerospike rocket engine for high-speed propulsion tests. First conceived in the 1960s ...