Scramjet launch scrubbed once again

June 14, 2007 - 8:21PM

An attempt to launch a supersonic scramjet engine in Australia's outback was aborted just five seconds before lift-off.
Strong wind gusts forced the late cancellation of the test of the scramjet at Woomera in South Australia's north.
It was the second consecutive day that strong winds had caused the cancellation of the test of the engine, which scientists ultimately hope will propel the next generation of supersonic aircraft.
The test is being overseen by the Australian government's Defence Science and Technology Organisation (DSTO).
DSTO spokesman Steve Butler said another attempt would be made on Friday.
In March last year, a rocket carrying a scramjet - an air-breathing supersonic combustion ramjet engine - was successfully trialled at Woomera, travelling at 8,000km/h, about 10 times the speed of a conventional jet.
© 2007 AAP

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