Latest Masten Space Systems Stories

Masten Space Completes First Untethered Flights, Competes in Challenge

2009-09-22 22:59:00

MOJAVE, Calif., Sept. 22 /PRNewswire/ -- Masten Space Systems successfully demonstrated multiple sustained free flights of its XA-0.1B vertical take-off, vertical landing (VTVL) rocket this past week. The longest flight was 93 seconds and involved a flight between two pads 60 meters apart. This marks the first time a purely rocket powered VTVL has flown from Mojave Air and Space Port. "The flight was absolutely beautiful! The control systems were designed to control the vehicle to high...

Masten Space's XA-0.1B-750 Vehicle Completes First Flight

2009-05-12 07:03:00

MOJAVE, Calif., May 12 /PRNewswire/ -- Masten Space Systems completed their first vertical take-off, vertical-landing (VTVL) rocket flight demonstration Friday. The demonstration proved out the design and controls of the 730lb rocket-powered vehicle, known as XA-0.1B-750 or "Xombie", its internal nickname. While the vehicle was attached to a safety tether, it took off, ascended a few meters, descended, and shut down its engine as designed. The instant the engine shut off the entire team...