Demonstrator I

This is the ARCA statement on the X-Prize site: "We consider the X PRIZE competition a new space race, even though this time the prize in not the Moon. It will open access to space for all of us, forever. Because of that, this competition is the most challenging competition ever addressed to private industry in astronautics. People all over the world are passionate about astronautics. Like all competitors, we are convinced that they want to feel what it's like to go into space and what it feels like to ride on a rocket. All those people deserve to have a chance to feel all of those things, and the X PRIZE will offer them this opportunity. Sub-orbital flights are nothing new; remember Mercury missions or the X-15 program. It is obviously possible to fulfil the X PRIZE competition tasks. We are proud to compete for the X PRIZE. We are honoured to take part in this adventure."

Recently, November 2003, ARCA have been carrying out static engine testing, and have had satisfactory results. The engines are "monopropellant" hydrogen peroxide. the principle of operation is that hydrogen peroxide, when in a concentrated form (typically > 60% w/w mixed with water) can be broken down catalytically into water and oxygen. The reaction is very exothermic, and the water emerges from an engine bell as superheated steam. Such a propellant system is environment-friendly in use, of course, and is also being used by other X-Prize teams.

The photograph above is of the "Demonstrator I". It does not appear to have been flown. There is also a "Demonstrator II". The stated intention is that Demonstrator II will fly to 20km altitude. Present progress may see Demonstrator II fly in 2004 (My guess). The X-Prize attempt vehicle is named "Orizont" and will be 1.3m in diameter, with the crew in-line in a narrow, cylindrical cabin of the same diameter.

In 2004, engine testing is being carried out using composite materials in the structure, which ARCA seems keen to use.

To go to the ARCA site, click the logo above.