This is the blog entry that explains the test: http://masten-space.com/blog/?p=94

This is an entry for a test that we did later in the day. We wanted to know what it would do to the ground considering that will be one of its tasks for the Lunar Lander Challenge. We call this one the Supersonic Posthole Digger: http://masten-space.com/blog/?p=95

That is what we call XA 0.1. It can only hover for about 45 seconds when fully loaded with fuel. The fuel is liquid oxygen and isopropyl alcohol (i.e. 99% pure rubbing alcohol). This vehicle's purpose is to test plumbing, engines, gymbals and flight control systems before we scale up the airframe and tanks. This test is only showing one engine, though. Once it checks out we add the other three and then let it fly under a teather.

For those who were able to make it to the XPRIZE Cup Expo in Las Cruces this past October, this is the vehicle we had on display at our tent. This won't be our Lunar Lander Challenge entry since it is too heavy (by design).

The deflector you see burning through is made of three layers of laminated douglas fir 2x4s....

That's a cool little lazy Susan they got there, spin and test it looks like,....

Strap a couple a' those on yer back for a home-made jet pack, or Darwin Award, whichever comes first!

"Try it on the cat first!"

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