Large drone used to launch satellites
We all have images in our mind of rocket launches from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station hurtling astronauts into space and satellites into orbit.
But those launches may be a thing of the past as a new generation of drones that can do the same job cheaper, safer and better steps into play.
Alabama-Based Aevum unveiled its Ravn X Autonomous Launch Vehicle Wednesday that it says is the world's largest unmanned aircraft system.
The Ravn X fleet, with aircraft at 80 feet long and 60 feet wide, can deliver satellite payloads with precision accuracy every 180 minutes around the clock. Best of all, company officials say, it can be done safer than current space delivery systems because the crafts are unmanned.
"Aevum is completely reimagining access to space," said Jay Skylus, founder and CEO of Aevum. "The current definition of rocket science doesn't work for us. With Aevum, everyone will be able to say, 'It is rocket science and I can do it.' Aevum is pushing logistics to the next generation with software and automation technologies."
The Ravn X does not require a runway longer than one mile, allowing it to take off and return to remote areas lacking formal airports. The drones take off and land without human assistance.
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There is much more.
This looks like an economical way of getting satellites into orbit and doing it rather quickly.
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