Aerospace, Defense and Mechanical Engineering

Space Exploration

Space X is working on a line of launch vehicles that aim to make space travel less expensive and more dependable. The propulsion development and structural test facilities are in Central Texas, while the Space X design and manufacturing facilities are in Southern California, close to the Los Angeles airport .LOX/RP engines power the two-stage launch vehicle known as the Falcon 9.With nine Merlin engines, the first stage produces sea-level thrust of 765,000 1bf, while the second stage produces vacuum thrust of 96,000 1bf.Gimbaled engines provide direction for both stages. The first-stage engine-out capability of the Falcon 9 is available.