RFA One - Everything you need to know
RFA One launching. Credit: RFA
We have a detailed article on the RFA One which can be read here: RFA One - The automotive approach to rockets
For more information on orbits and European launch sites, read here: Where will European rockets launch from?
RFA
Building a rocket like a car - This is Rocket Factory Augsburg’s goal. Founded in 2018, RFA plans to make rockets like cars using many standard parts from other industries, mainly from the automotive industry. Their goal? To deliver cheap and high-cadence flights to Europe
The vehicle
A render of RFA One render launching from Kourou Space Center. Credit: RFA
RFA One is a 30 metre tall rocket. It’s designed to carry 1300kg (small car) to a 500km SSO (Sun Synchronous orbit)
Helix Engine
Helix engine test fire. Credit: RFA
The company developed Helix engine is the powerhouse behind the RFA One. Helix is an oxygen fuel rich mix featuring a staged combustion cycle. With a thrust of 100kN it has the power to lift around 10 small cars! And RFA One first stage has 9 Helix engines!
The three stages
First stage (Booster) - This first stage is 21 metres in length and features 9 Helix sea level optimised engines!
Second stage - After the first stage has completed its job, this smaller 4.5 metre long stage takes over. Featuring 1 vacuum optimised Helix engine, it puts the payload into orbit.
Third Stage (OTV) - The final piece is called Redshift. Featuring 1 Fenix engine producing 1.5kN of thrust, it is able to precisely place payloads into their desired orbits. Like a space tugboat.
Launchpad
RFA One launchpad. Credit: RFA
Every rocket needs a launchpad. RFA One is no exception.
A launch stool simply keeps the rocket off the ground, allows technicians to get underneath the rocket for inspection, and most importantly has a flame deflector. This flame deflector will divert the flame horizontally so the exhaust doesn’t hit the ground and potentially damage the rocket. The launch stool also has something called a water deluge system. This fires water at the engine nozzles on takeoff to reduce vibrations and heat of the exhaust.
RFA One will have its maiden flight at SaxaVord spaceport in the Shetland Islands, Scotland. This is a relatively easy launchpad to get to since the UK and Germany are quite close together.
Geographical location
Due to how northern the UK is, it makes Shetland the perfect place for launching into SSO and polar orbits. These orbits require very little to no horizontal velocity. For reference, Shetland spins at 830km/h whilst Kennedy Space Center spins at 1471km/h.
This puts the UK at a natural advantage for polar and SSO orbits since we have less horizontal velocity to scrub off.
