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Kistler Fuel Tank Checks Out
Los Angeles - April 23, 1998 - Kistler Aerospace and Lockheed Martin siad Wednesday that fuel tank testing had check out successfully, completing another major milestone toward Kistler's mission of providing the world's first reusable launch vehicle - the Kistler K-1.

Designed and tested by Lockheed Martin's Michoud Space Systems division, the hydrostatic proof testing of the K-1 liquid oxygen tank was conducted to simulate the pressures the tank will experience during flight.

``This is an exciting time for us,'' said Robert Wang, chairman of Kistler Aerospace. ``With the help of outstanding contractors like Lockheed Martin, we continue to move through major milestones, like the one today, with great results. Lockheed Martin's experience with Space Shuttle external tanks and X-33 liquid oxygen tanks gave us every reason to believe the K-1 tank design would be successful.''

The aluminum fuel tank, which will contain liquid oxygen to be used during first stage boost, was filled with approximately 33,600 gallons of water to resemble flight pressures and prove flight worthiness. During the proof test procedure, a maximum pressure of 44 pounds per square inch was generated hydrostatically at the rear of the liquid oxygen tank.

Following non-destructive evaluation of the tank, Lockheed Martin technicians will complete final installations and cleaning to prepare the component for installation in the K-1 launch vehicle. Final assembly will take place at the NASA Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans.

Kistler Aerospace is the leading developer of the K-1 fully reusable aerospace vehicle, designed to deliver satellites to low-Earth orbit and provide a low-cost alternative to single-use launch vehicles. Kistler is a privately-funded U.S. company with corporate offices in Kirkland, Wash. and executive offices in Los Angeles.

  • Kistler Aerospace




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