X-Prize Update

In the previous edition of the 'Clips we featured Scaled Composites as one of the X-Prize entrants, and they have now successfully tested their craft twice in unpowered descent.

On August 11, their SpaceShipOne craft was launched at 47,000 feet and 105 knots, 10 nm east of Mojave. The report states that separation was clean and positive with no tendency to roll off or pitch bobble. An initial handling qualities evaluation was very positive, supported close correlation to the vehicle simulator and with that confidence, the first flight test cards were executed as planned. The flight provided handling quality and performance data over 60% of the expected subsonic flight envelope from stall to 150 knots. Trim sensitivity, stick forces, control harmony and L/D performance were all as expected. The on-board avionics and energy management cueing displays performed flawlessly, the gear extension rapid, and the vehicle made a smooth touchdown at 7:56 local on Runway 30 at Mojave.

On August 27, the second glide flight of SpaceShipOne took place, testing the flying qualities and performance in the space ship re-entry or "feather" mode, and pilot workload and situational awareness while transitioning and handling qualities assessment when reconfigured.

The deadline for winning the X-Prize is 2005, but Burt Rutan's Scaled Composites team is hoping they might claim the prize by the end of this year. That would place in a good position to grab a good share of the anticipated 15,000 customers annually who will be willing to pay $50,000 to $100,000 each for a suborbital flight.

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