A test firing of twin linear XRS-2200 aerospike engines, originally built for the
Lockheed Martin X-33, a next-generation, commercially operated
reusable launch vehicle. The aerospike engine is a type of
rocket engine that maintains its efficiency across a wide range of altitudes through the use of an aerospike nozzle. A vehicle with an aerospike engine uses 25-30% less fuel at low
altitudes, where most missions have the greatest need for
thrust.Photo credit:
Marshall Space Flight Center
A test firing of twin linear XRS-2200 aerospike engines, originally built for the
Lockheed Martin X-33, a next-generation, commercially operated
reusable launch vehicle. The aerospike engine is a type of
rocket engine that maintains its efficiency across a wide range of altitudes through the use of an aerospike nozzle. A vehicle with an aerospike engine uses 25-30% less fuel at low
altitudes, where most missions have the greatest need for
thrust.Photo credit:
Marshall Space Flight Center