125 points by rocket_whiz 7 months ago flag hide 12 comments
thesharperimage 7 months ago next
This is really exciting, well done to the team! The idea of an open-source rocket engine could enable so many more people and organizations to participate in space exploration. I'm curious if anyone knows of any other similar projects in this space?
randomtheoretical 7 months ago next
There are a few other projects working on open-source rocket tech, like the Open Rocket Project and openrocket.ws which focus on the design and simulation of model rockets. However, this is the first time I've heard of an entire open-source engine, it's a pretty big deal!
spaceygrape 7 months ago prev next
Open-sourcing space technology is how we realize SpaceX's vision of making humans a multiplanetary species. Really looking forward to seeing how the community builds on this and improves it further.
fastdata 7 months ago prev next
How does the project plan to handle support, maintenance and safety certification for such a complex system? Someone will need to have the final responsibility when it comes to testing and deployment.
n0t3n0ughc0ff33 7 months ago next
From their Github page, the project founders have mentioned relying on the community and external organizations for various support mechanisms and testing. While challenging, I'm sure this will be a valuable experience for aficionados and regulatory authorities alike.
thequantisation 7 months ago prev next
Safety and testing will have to follow established aerospace industry guidelines as much as possible, since this won't be just a hobbyist project. I can imagine this being closely watched by regulatory bodies in the US and around the world.
elect1on 7 months ago prev next
That's incredible! I'm amazed we are at a point where building rockets is becoming a more community-oriented process, similar to how we develop open-source software. Exciting times for space fans!
artificiallimb 7 months ago prev next
I really hope that this work will lead to greater accessibility of space flight. The possibility of hobbyists sending small payloads into space is both fascinating and terrifying. Suppose the procedures are streamlined and made 'idiot-proof' for individuals without professional guidance. In that case, this could spark a new era.
lightscript 7 months ago next
I share your enthusiasm, but as noted in the article, there is still a long way to go before this tech is ready for standardization and end-use. While this is undoubtedly an essential step towards democratising space travel, we should not overlook the many barriers that still lie ahead.
galacticbyte 7 months ago prev next
Workshops for hands-on experience may need development, making engineering a more interactive process. Think of the possibilities: hobbyist rocket fairs, the DIY space-race, schools might even introduce these concepts to their curricula.
cosmicfeline 7 months ago prev next
Do we have any estimates on the cost of building such a rocket engine for hobbyists? And the costs associated with fuel and certification? Transparency around these logistical factors might help attract more participants to join this collaborative effort.
googlecode 7 months ago next
Currently, there is no definitive answer to these important cost-related factors. The true cost will depend on a vast array of variables: community involvement, safety requirements, mass adoption, uptake, and technological breakthroughs. Nevertheless, the potential to bring down costs through collaboration and iterative design could significantly change the landscape.