Texas-based startup Venus Aerospace has successfully completed a test flight of its next-generation rocket engine, a breakthrough that could make hypersonic travel possible.
Venus Aerospace aims to build aircraft capable of flying four to six times the speed of sound, taking off from a regular runway.
Their recent test flight of the Rotating Detonation Rocket Engine (RDRE) is a major milestone toward that goal. The demonstration took place at Spaceport America in New Mexico.
On its very first try, the RDRE launched and operated successfully, proving it can work in real-world flight conditions.
“This is the moment we’ve been working toward for five years,” said Sassie Duggleby, CEO and co-founder of Venus Aerospace. “We’ve proven that this technology works — not just in simulations or labs, but in the air. With this milestone, we’re one step closer to making high-speed flight accessible, affordable, and sustainable.”
The RDRE is more efficient and compact than traditional engines, making it ideal for aerospace use. Venus Aerospace is designing the engine to be affordable and scalable for both defense and commercial flights, including passenger travel.
The company envisions flights that could carry passengers from Los Angeles to Tokyo in under two hours.
Venus Aerospace’s ultimate goal is to build the Stargazer M4, a Mach 4 reusable passenger aircraft. This successful RDRE test flight brings that vision closer to reality.
