Monday, April 15, 2019

Stratolaunch Takes To Skies For Maiden Flight

Mojave-based Stratolaunch Systems Corporation, the developer of space launch systems which were founded by now deceased Microsoft co-founder Paul G. Allen, has successfully launched the world's largest plane--the Stratolaunch--in its maiden flight, the first step of getting its mid-air rocket launch system into operation. Stratolaunch took off on Saturday, April 13th, at 6:58am from the Mojave Air & Space Port, and successfully reached altitudes of up to 17,000 feet and speeds of up to 189 miles per hour, according to Stratolaunch Systems. The huge aircraft--which has a wingspan greater than a football field---is designed to carry launch rockets that weigh up to 500,000 pounds under its center wing, which can be released while in flight to send payloads into space.