The SpaceX Nine Raptor Mars Rocket

in space on 2014-03-09 11:35 (#3FB)

The ever-improving Raptor rocket engine from SpaceX has mutated to a 1Mlbf (4,500kN) gas-gas (full flow) liquid methane and oxygen engine. With nine such engines in an arrangement that could dwarf even the Saturn V, can Musk and his team finally shoot for Mars?

Re: Interesting that they chose methane. (Score: 4, Informative)

by wildwombat@pipedot.org on 2014-03-09 21:18 (#BN)

I'm not so sure that they plan on finding methane as much as they can produce methane from other gasses that are there. Its an easier fuel to manufacture than kerosene and easier to handle than hydrogen.

Cheers,
-WW