Vaya Space announced the successful launch of its hybrid rocket from Mojave, California on January 29th, 2022 operating under an existing FAA waiver. The suborbital flight demonstrated its hybrid rocket design using 3D printed fuel grains created from recycled thermoplastics. This launch paves the way for rapid acceleration of Vaya Space’s go-to-market strategy as the Company scales for production, with its first commercial orbital launch planned for 2023.
“This is a huge milestone,” stated Vaya Space CEO Grant Begley, “and demonstrates our ability with this technology to revolutionize space access. Vaya Space has become a viable force to be reckoned with.”
The unique design of Vaya Space’s STAR-3DTM Engine is highly stable, non-toxic, non-hazardous and non-explosive at ambient temperatures and pressures. It only becomes high energy fuel when combined with liquid oxidizer and ignited; which means it can be safely transported, stored and handled, providing an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional rocket fuels.
Robert Fabian, Vaya Space President, said, “Creating new technology is not without its challenges. This achievement follows over 90 successful static hot fire tests and is a true testament of our innovative engineering and dedicated team.”
In preparation for its first launch planned from Cape Canaveral, Vaya Space has signed a Space Act Umbrella agreement with NASA, and secured its first launch contract with several launch reservations placed for 2023 and 2024.
“Now that we’ve successfully flight tested our technology, Vaya Space is ready to disrupt the smallsat launch services market; providing unmatched safety, affordability and eco-friendly access to space,” added Vaya Space Vice President Jack Blood.
