XC-1 Small Satellite Launch Services

The Rocketplane XC-1 small satellite delivery system operates as a reusable rocketplane. Fully fueled at take off, the XC-1 uses jet engines to ascend to 35 - 40,000 ft. The rocket engines then carry the vehicle to approximately 100 km, at a speed of approximately 2.3 km/s. The second stage deploys the small satellite to orbit, while the airplane glides back to the upper atmosphere. The engines engage for a safe conventional aircraft landing back at the airport.