Bloodhound team to test Europe’s largest hybrid rocket

The Bloodhound team will be conducting a number of experiments leading up to the high-power firing taking place on 3 October at the Aerohub, Newquay Cornwall Airport. The test represents the most significant milestone yet for the Bloodhound team as it develops the world's first 1,000mph supersonic racing car. At 12ft long, 18in in diameter and 450kg in weight, the Bloodhound rocket is the largest of its kind ever designed in Europe. In its ultimate form it will generate c. 27,500lbs of thrust, equivalent to c. 80,000 horsepower and the combined output of 95 Formula 1 cars. Bloodhound's engineers will be evaluating the performance of the complete rocket system for the first time, which comprises the Cosworth CA2010 F1 engine, High Test Peroxide oxidiser tank, custom designed gearbox and software and Falcon Hybrid Rocket, designed by 28 year-old self-trained rocketeer Daniel Jubb. The experiment will be conducted inside a hardened air shelter with data and video streamed live to an adjacent building where the engineers, guests and media will be stationed. During the test, the Cosworth F1 engine will rev to 17,500rpm in order to fire HTP into the rocket at a pressure of 600lbs per square inch. The rocket will burn for c.10 seconds during the test; half the duration of a record run but sufficient to generate c. 30,000 equivalent hp. Sound levels at the rocket nozzle are expected to approach 185dB, many times that of a Boeing 747 at take off. The team will also be using the event to practise the safety protocols and rocket handling procedures they will use in 12 month's time, when Bloodhound begins its supersonic campaign at Hakskeen Pan, South Africa. Eureka will be reporting live from the high-power rocket firing at Newquay on 3 October. For updates live from the event visit www.eurekamagazine.co.uk and follow us on Twitter via @EurekaMagazine.