Radian Aerospace Successfully Completes First Taxi Tests for Prototype Flight Vehicle

Radian Aerospace Successfully Completes First Taxi Tests for Prototype Flight Vehicle
by Clarence Oxford
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Sep 26, 2024

Radian Aerospace (Radian), known for developing the world's first fully reusable, horizontal takeoff and landing, single-stage-to-orbit (SSTO) spaceplane, has successfully completed the initial round of ground taxi tests for its prototype flight vehicle, PFV01. These tests represent a significant step in the company's progress toward realizing the Radian One spaceplane.

The ground tests, conducted in Abu Dhabi, focused on evaluating the vehicle's low-speed takeoff and landing characteristics, such as handling and yaw stability. PFV01, designed to share the aerodynamic profile of Radian's AV09 iteration, performed a series of pitch-up maneuvers and short hops, with crucial data collected via integrated telemetry systems.

"These successful tests represent an early but significant step in our broader journey to bring Radian One to market," said Richard Humphrey, co-founder and CEO of Radian. "While we know there is much work ahead, each step in our robust test program brings us closer to transforming access to space with rapid, reusable, and cost-effective transport to low Earth orbit. This achievement underscores the dedication of our team and the potential of our technology as we continue to advance through the next phases of development."

Throughout the tests, Radian's engineering team concentrated on fine-tuning flight control systems and comparing the collected real-world data against analytical predictions. The prototype was equipped with various telemetry systems to track essential parameters, such as stability and control.

"We've made substantial technical progress with PFV01," stated Livingston Holder, co-founder and CTO of Radian. "Validating our aerodynamic analysis allows us to better define our shape by systematically de-risking critical elements of our spaceplane's design.

"The ability to collect and analyze real-world data from our initial ground tests is providing key insights into the vehicle's aerodynamic performance and stability that will drive the design of future prototypes and Radian One."

Radian has successfully manufactured the composite PFV01 and implemented tools to analyze real-time data using integrated flight sensors. Looking ahead, the company plans to conduct further tests in the coming months from a longer regional runway to facilitate sustained flight at higher speeds.

These upcoming trials will expand the flight envelope and provide additional data to refine the iterative design process. PFV01 will serve as a platform for addressing higher-risk design challenges, guiding the design of Radian One based on real-world performance.

As Radian advances its prototype testing campaign, future test vehicles will tackle additional challenges, including sled separation aerodynamics, rocket engine integration, and control surface optimization.