American Rocket’s New Engine Passes Key Test

The first test-firing of the world’s largest hybrid rocket motor was a success, reports Paul Estey, president of Ventura-based American Rocket Co.

The unit, which was bolted in place for its test at Edwards Air Force Base last week, combined solid and liquid fuels to generate 250,000 pounds of thrust, Estey said.

“We reached full thrust and we’re very pleased,” Estey said. “This is a major milestone for us.”

Friday’s test was to be the first of four scheduled for this year.

If the engine, called the H-1800, passes all its tests, it will be used to launch commercial satellites and to help power Aquila, an unmanned space vehicle also being developed by American Rocket, Estey said. The company expects the motor and spacecraft to be used for such purposes as developing new medicines and metals and in communications and weather forecasting. HyFlyer, a suborbital version of Aquila, is scheduled to be launched in late 1994.

Friday’s test marked was a first step in the company’s comeback from a failed launch when its rocket caught on fire in 1989. At that time, the firm had 130 employees. The payroll is now down to 20.

Early this month, American Rocket moved to a plant on Ralston Street in Ventura from its former location on Flynn Road in Camarillo. The company is holding talks with firms with which it hopes to join forces to help finance its projects.