Chapter 1: The Dawn of a New Era in Space Launch Technology

The realm of space exploration is undergoing a significant transformation, with SpinLaunch positioning itself as a frontrunner in the future of rocket technology. The decline in launch costs, largely driven by SpaceX's reusable rocket innovations, has accelerated the development of other space agencies and companies. This newfound affordability allows for ambitious projects, such as advanced space telescopes, lunar bases, and even missions to Mars. While SpaceX currently leads the market with its competitive pricing, SpinLaunch is emerging with a groundbreaking approach that could dramatically reduce launch expenses. Recently, NASA completed tests on SpinLaunch's prototype, raising important questions: What is this new launch method? How does it achieve lower costs than SpaceX? And what were the outcomes of NASA’s evaluations?

In my earlier piece titled “The Space Catapult That Could Topple SpaceX,” I detailed how SpinLaunch operates. At its core, SpinLaunch functions like a sophisticated catapult. The system utilizes a powerful electric motor to drive a massive rotating arm—approximately 150 feet long—within a vacuum chamber of the same diameter. This arm is designed to accommodate a payload of up to 200 kg within a capsule resembling a bullet. As the arm accelerates to 4,600 mph, the payload experiences an astounding 10,000 g of centrifugal force due to minimal air resistance. Once the desired velocity is reached, the arm releases the payload at a calculated angle to maximize its trajectory toward orbit. Following this release, an airlock door opens rapidly, preventing disruption of the vacuum chamber, and the capsule ascends to an altitude of 60 km, where it sheds its encasement, allowing the secondary rocket stage to ignite and propel the satellite into orbit.

This innovative approach is remarkable. Instead of relying on chemical propulsion to breach the atmosphere, SpinLaunch harnesses kinetic energy. An evident limitation, however, is that human passengers cannot withstand a launch with such extreme centrifugal force, which restricts this technology to satellite deployments. Fortunately, since most launches do not involve crewed missions, this limitation is not particularly problematic.

The advantages of SpinLaunch over its competitors are substantial.

The first video, "The New Space Race, SpaceX & Starship - Satellite constellations & Launcher Evolution," delves into the evolving landscape of space technology and the competitive dynamics between key players in the industry.

Chapter 2: The Economic Viability of SpinLaunch

SpinLaunch confidently asserts that it will consume four times less fuel than competitors and achieve launch costs that are ten times lower. But how credible are these claims?

Currently, SpaceX’s Falcon 9 stands as the most economical option for reaching space, costing $67 million to transport 22,800 kg to Low Earth Orbit (LEO)—approximately $2,938 per kg. For SpinLaunch to claim its pricing is ten times lower, it must charge less than $293.80 per kg to LEO. With a payload capacity of 200 kg, this translates to a target launch cost of $58,600. Is this achievable?

The operational costs for SpinLaunch include the amortization of building the massive catapult and producing the bullet-like casing and secondary stage. While this pricing might become feasible at scale, the reality is that initial costs may be higher than projected.

Previously, SpinLaunch set a target of $500,000 per launch, yielding a per-kilogram cost of $2,500—still cheaper than Falcon 9 but significantly more than SpaceX’s upcoming Starship, which aims for under $100 per kg to LEO.

NASA has recognized the potential of SpinLaunch, appreciating the environmental and financial benefits it could bring to their small and medium satellite operations. However, concerns about the high g-force impact on satellites remained.

To address these concerns, NASA utilized SpinLaunch's sub-orbital scale prototype for testing, which occurred on September 27, 2022. Although the scale model features a smaller arm, it spins faster, allowing NASA's payload to experience the same 10,000 g but at lower exit velocities. Equipped with various sensors—including a gyroscope, magnetometer, and accelerometers—NASA could assess which components could endure such launches, providing valuable data for SpinLaunch’s future enhancements.

So, did NASA approve of the results? It appears so!

In a press release, SpinLaunch stated that the test confirmed the compatibility of their satellite components with the launch environment. The CEO emphasized that the test marked a pivotal moment for SpinLaunch, as they expand their Suborbital Accelerator system for clients and partners. The insights gained from these tests will be instrumental for SpinLaunch in developing their Orbital Launch system.

With NASA’s endorsement and plans for commercial orbital flights by 2025, SpinLaunch may soon challenge SpaceX’s Falcon 9 in terms of pricing. This highlights that sometimes the most unconventional ideas can lead to the most promising outcomes. While SpinLaunch may not facilitate human travel to Mars, its role in the burgeoning sectors of satellite internet, microsatellites, and academic space projects may solidify its position as a significant player in the space industry.

The second video, "Smoke and Fire! NASA's Space Launch System Rocket Booster Test," showcases the rigorous testing processes involved in developing reliable launch systems for future missions.