XCOR Test-Fires proposed Lynx Engine

MOJAVE - PRNewswire XCOR announced Monday it successfully completed a first test fire of the rocket engine that is planned for use as power the Lynx suborbital launch vehicle to the edge of space.

The new engine, designated the 5K18, produces between 2500-2900 lbf thrust burning a mixture of liquid oxygen and kerosene. The engine was fired Monday at XCOR's test facility located at the Mojave Air and Space Port in California. 

The first test of the engine was performed using pressure-fed propellants whereas the final version of the engine will be fed using XCOR's proprietary cryogenic piston pump for liquid oxygen and a similar piston pump for kerosene.

"Today's successful hot fire marks an important step forward in building the Lynx," said XCOR CEO Jeff Greason. "The 5K18 builds on our previous experience in designing and building reliable, durable and fully reusable rocket engines from 15 lbf thrust up to 7500 lbf, that will make it possible to provide affordable access to space."

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