New Frontier Aerospace puts its 3D printed Mjölnir rocket engine to the test

The Mjölnir engine employs a combustion cycle that only a few systems in the world have mastered.
Motor de cohete Mjölnir

New Frontier Aerospace (NFA) has successfully completed a series of hot tests of the Mjölnir engine, a 3D printed rocket engine designed to transform hypersonic and orbital propulsion. The engine, fueled by liquefied natural gas (LNG) from bio-based sources, reduces environmental impact, positioning itself as a carbon-negative solution.

The rocket engine that makes a difference

Designed around a full-flow staged combustion cycle, Mjölnir offers a level of efficiency comparable to the most advanced systems on the market. Its architecture allows for more complete fuel combustion and higher thrust, making it especially attractive for reusable vehicles. reusable vehicles and thermally and mechanically demanding operations.

In addition to driving the unmanned aerial vehicle VTOL hypersonic Pathfinder, which will make its first stationary flight in 2026, Mjölnir will also be the core of the Bifröst orbital transfer spacecraft, scheduled for deployment in 2027. Both systems represent NFA’s commitment to an agile, modular and reusable operating model.

Mjölnir enters the market as a high-end option

The program has been supported by NASA and initially funded by National Security Innovation Capital. Institutional collaboration reinforces the technical credibility of the development and demonstrates the government sector’s interest in efficient and sustainable propulsion solutions..

According to Bill Bruner, CEO of NFA, the compact design, energy efficiency and the use of a clean fuel, the clean fuel make Mjölnir a transformative tool for its missions and for customers seeking innovation with environmental responsibility.

Currently available as a commercial product, Mjölnir opens up new opportunities for aerospace companies interested in integrating a state-of-the-art propulsion system. With this engine, NFA aims to redefine the technological standard in hypersonic flight. hypersonic flight and orbital transfers.

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Source: New Frontier Aerospace via PRNewswire

Photo: Jess Sponable