Col. Michael L. Wolfert (USAF, Retired), Andrews Space Director of Military and Homeland Security Programs, said, "The current partnership between DARPA/AFRL and Andrews is continuing to develop technologies, which will permit the Air Force to field future systems earlier to meet its space launch, satellite deployment and global strike missions.

Development and demonstration of these technologies offers a new hybrid approach to rocket propulsion which can significantly reduce takeoff gross weight and offers interesting new capabilities for the nation's national security and space exploration programs."

Initial Alchemist ACES technology assessments were funded by NASA and verified overall feasibility. Last year, DARPA awarded Andrews a contract to conduct system testing. Under this initial contract, valued at $653,000, Andrews demonstrated basic system technologies. In addition, Andrews designed and built a rotating test apparatus to conduct advanced cryogenic testing.

Under the new contract, valued close to $350,000, Andrews will advance the state-of-the-art and demonstrate critical ACES components and operating parameters. This bridge funding permits early demonstration of the technologies required and reduces significantly program risk for the demonstration program.

Related Links
Air Collection and Enrichment System (ACES)
DARPA

Add to Delicious