ATRX Develops Space Planes with Innovative Air Turbo Rocket Technology
ATRX, a US-based spacetech startup founded in 2021, is developing space planes designed for regular space launches, enabling operations akin to conventional runway takeoffs. The vehicles will operate in Very Low Earth Orbit and Low Earth Orbit (LEO), with capabilities for runway landings.
ATRX plans to create an uncrewed version for small satellite launches and a crewed version for human activities. A key innovation is the Air Turbo Rocket (ATR), which combines turbojet and rocket motor technologies for high fuel economy and thrust.
This propulsion system is expected to lower operating costs compared to traditional rocket-only systems. ATRX's space planes will require minimal ground infrastructure and are fully reusable. Additionally, Solestial, based in Tempe, Arizona, is developing flexible silicon photovoltaic modules for space applications, featuring radiation-tolerant solar cells that self-heal and offer a service life of up to 10 years in LEO or lunar environments.
