Giant ‘space slingshot’ set to launch NASA craft in 2022

[Midnight]

Giant ‘space slingshot’ set to launch NASA craft in 2022 revealed

By Charlotte Edwards, The Sun

April 15, 2022 5:58pm Updated






Spaceflight technology firm SpinLaunch's groundbreaking A-33 Suborbital Mass Accelerator will fly its first NASA payload later this year.


ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED BY:

The Sun



A “giant slingshot” contraption will be testing out its catapult capabilities on a NASA craft later this year.



Spaceflight technology firm SpinLaunch has revealed its futuristic A-33 Suborbital Mass Accelerator that’s said to act just like a slingshot.



The launcher is aiming to test out its spinning skills on a NASA craft containing a satellite.



It will spin the craft at up to 5,000 miles per hour.



Concept images show how SpinLaunch uses a rotating carbon fiber arm within a 300-foot diameter steel vacuum chamber.



The design means a rocket can be launched with less fuel.



Jonathan Yaney, founder and CEO of SpinLaunch, said: “SpinLaunch is offering a unique suborbital flight and high-speed testing service, and the recent launch agreement with NASA marks a key inflection point as SpinLaunch shifts focus from technology development to commercial offerings.



“What started as an innovative idea to make space more accessible has materialized into a technically mature and game-changing approach to launch.



“We look forward to announcing more partners and customers soon, and greatly appreciate NASA’s continued interest and support in SpinLaunch.”

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