XCOR, Developing the Next Generation Spaceplane (EPUB)

Provides insights into the needed support for developing XCOR's Lynx, including space training agencies such as NASTAR, and comparing XCOR's vehicle to the only other spaceplane being developed currently, called the DreamChaser, by Sierra Nevada
Chronicles the development of rocket propulsion, avionics, simulator and ground support required to realize the dream of flying passengers into space
Describes the multiple commercial uses of XCOR's vehicle Lynx, from tourism to industrial research

Employing the same informational approach Erik Seedhouse used in "SpaceX" and "Bigelow Aerospace", this new book familiarizes space enthusiasts with the company XCOR Aerospace and examines the design of the two-seater Lynx. The new spaceplane's low weight and high octane fuel confer important advantages, such as direct runway launches and the ability to fly several times per day. Over the last 15 years, XCOR has developed and built 13 different rocket engines, built and flown two manned rocket-powered aircraft and has accumulated over 4,000 engine firings and nearly 500 minutes of run time on their engines.

This book serves as a go-to reference guide for suborbital scientists and those seeking to learn how one company has found success. Additionally, it describes the medical and training requirements for those flying on board the Lynx and the related critical roles of the astronaut trainers and a new breed of commercial space pilots. The end result is a thorough chronicle of the development of rocket propulsion, avionics, simulator and ground support operations being put into play by XCOR with the Lynx.