Stratolaunch emerges from hangar for tests
The world’s largest all-composite plane has been moved from its hangar prior to a series of aircraft fuelling tests.
At 238’ (76m) long and with a wingspan of 385’(118m), Stratolaunch will be powered by six Pratt & Whitney PW4056 engines and deliver payloads of up to approximately 550,000Ibs (249,475kg) into space.
“Over the past few weeks, we have removed the fabrication infrastructure, including the three-story scaffolding surrounding the aircraft, and rested the aircraft’s full weight on its 28 wheels for the first time,” said Jean Floyd, CEO, Stratolaunch Systems Corporation. “This was a crucial step in preparing the aircraft for ground testing, engine runs, taxi tests, and ultimately first flight.
“Once we achieved weight-on-wheels, it enabled us to weigh the Stratolaunch aircraft for the first time, coming in at approximately 500,000lbs (226,796kg). That may sound heavy, but remember that the Stratolaunch aircraft is the world’s largest plane by wingspan, measuring 385ft (118m). The aircraft is 238ft (76M) from nose to tail and stands 50ft (15m) tall from the ground to the top of the vertical tail."
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