Virgin Galactic - Successful SpaceShipTwo Rocket Motor Testing, Virgin Galactic (With videos)
"In the desert of southern California, Virgin Galactic's key supplier Scaled Composites and its subcontractor SNC (Sierra Nevada Corporation) have successfully completed the first tests of the innovative rocket motor that will propel space tourists, scientists and payloads into space. The hybrid Nitrous Oxide system being used is the largest of its kind in the world and it will send Virgin's customers up into sub-orbital space at speeds over 2500 mph (4000kmh), to heights over 65 miles (110km) above the Earths surface, before the spaceship descends back down through the atmosphere using its pioneering feathered re-entry system. "
Editor's note: The news was released at the National Space Society annual International Space Development Conference (ISDC). Along with the rocket test video and intro by Sir Richard Branson we've also included a new video from Virgin Galactic called "Let the Journey Begin". Enjoy!