Alternative Fuel Powers Rotating Detonating Rocket Engine
CleanJoule's SpaceSAF Tested on Venus Aerospace Engine
In a test described as a first of its kind, a CleanJoule high-performance alternative rocket fuel, SpaceSAF, was successfully used to power a Rotating Detonation Rocket Engine (RDRE) developed by Venus Aerospace. The companies say the test marks a major validation of the compatibility of next-generation fuel with cutting-edge propulsion systems.
"The successful detonation of an RDRE utilizing SpaceSAF proves that alternative fuels can deliver for both performance and emissions needs in commercial and defense applications.”
Mukund Karanjikar, CleanJoule
The ground test was conducted at Venus’s Houston-based test site and represents a significant step forward in expanding the operational flexibility of RDRE technology across dual use missions. “Without affordable, domestically-produced alternative fuels, the financial and environmental costs of space missions become unsustainable,” said Mukund Karanjikar, CEO and founder, CleanJoule. "The successful detonation of an RDRE utilizing SpaceSAF proves that alternative fuels can deliver for both performance and emissions needs in commercial and defense applications.”
SpaceSAF is a drop-in replacement for liquid (RP-1 & RP-2) rocket fuels that improves mission performance including increasing payload and distance. From the same base material used to produce SpaceSAF, CleanJoule also produces a sustainable solid rocket fuel (SSRF) for use as a superior performance, drop-in replacement for existing solid rocket motors. This milestone comes at a critical time with an ecosystem emerging that is focused on expanding access to space across satellite deployment, exploration, and defense systems. As more frequent launches drive up related CO2 emissions, the need for performant alternatives to conventional rocket fuels is urgent.
“This test helps advance an important conversation in aerospace: how to pair next-gen propulsion with alternative fuels that don’t compromise on performance,” said Nick Cardwell, VP of Product and Advanced Concepts, Venus Aerospace. “CleanJoule’s work on high-performance, low-emissions fuels contributes meaningfully to an evolving space and defense ecosystem, and we’re pleased to see their product perform under real operational conditions.”