Alpha Impulsion (Accelerator)

Company Description: Our goal is to make a micro-launcher (500 kg in LEO) using a new type of architecture we are developing: hybrid autophage propulsion. The structure of the rocket is made of fuel, consequently this is inserted into the combustion chamber and burned during flight, resulting in a continuous reduction in the length and mass of the rocket. Viewed from the outside, the rocket shrinks during flight until the combustion chamber reaches the Payload, having consumed all available fuel/structure. We presented at last IAC some preliminary results on the design of a launcher using this technology. The inert mass ( mainly related to separation systems, structure and turbopumps) is significantly reduced, allowing a Payload to Total Mass ratio of about 4% even for a micro-launcher, 3 to 5 times better than what envisaged by competitors. This result is obviously accompanied by a lighter, better performing and less polluting launcher in general, resulting in an important reduction of cost.