Astrobotic fires next-generation 'rotating detonation rocket engine' in record-breaking test (video)

Pittsburgh-based Astrobotic has completed a successful series of hot-fire tests of its rotating detonation rocket engine prototype Chakram, marking a key milestone toward bringing the experimental propulsion technology to flight readiness. Rotating detonation rocket engines (RDREs) work differently from conventional designs. Typical rocket engines rely on a steady, controlled process of chemical propellant ignition inside a combustion chamber. …