Methane Rocket Video
The video of this recent test of NASA’s methane-powered rocket is a dazzling feast of color and sound. The evening sunset desert surroundings (which I am sure were chosen for their scientific, not artistic, value) provide the perfect backdrop for the futuristic looking flame. The part of the video where the rocket goes from pre-burn to ignition is absolutely outrageous. A bit about the methane rockets:
Methane (CH4), the principal component of natural gas, is abundant in the outer solar system. It can be harvested from Mars, Titan, Jupiter, and many other planets and moons. With fuel waiting at the destination, a rocket leaving Earth wouldn’t have to carry so much propellant, reducing the cost of a mission.
NASA really should publicize more cool videos like this: I think there is a significant group of people who would like an accessible window into what they do between shuttle and mission launches.
Comments
Nils
I saw this video and thought it was the coolest thing ever. I showed it to my roommates and they also thought it was the best. It is really great if you crank up the bass, especially when it goes from pre-burn to ignition. Awesome.