XC Small Satellite Launch Services

The Rocketplane XC small satellite delivery system operates as a reusable rocketplane. Fully fueled at take off, the XC 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.

 

The XC is engineered in Canada, Switzerland, and Germany. The methane/LOX rocket engines are being designed and built in Canada. The rocket engines should be reusable for 1,000 flights with minimal turnaround between flights. The vehicle will be assembled in Canada and as such should be free of ITAR restrictions.