The WaveRider has been built around the scramjet engine and named so because it uses lift from its own shock waves to stay in air. Officially known as the X-51, the aircraft is fast on its way to trials, where it is expected to achieve speeds as high as Mach 6 while running solely on ordinary jet fuel. Success of the $246.5 million program could have a profound impact on space vehicles and missiles. They could potentially do away with oxidizers and have more space available for payload or cargo.
Engine of the X-51 is made of standard nickel alloy and cooled by its own fuel. For the test flight, a B-52 Bomber will take the craft to an altitude of 50,000 feet. Once released at that altitude, solid-rocket boosters will take it to Mach 4.8. The aircraft’s engine will take over at this point and propel it to Mach 6 during the five-minute flight. The first test will be over the Pacific in October this year.
Via: Discovery
