Recently, the first liquid rocket engine in the world entirely designed by artificial intelligence was tested in the UK. The design process took less than two weeks after the specifications were approved. A few more days were needed for 3D printing the engine. After assembly, it successfully launched on the first attempt. The AI accomplished a year’s worth of work for a design team with excellence.
Scientists from LEAP 71 have recently made a significant breakthrough in space technology by developing and successfully testing a new rocket engine fully designed by artificial intelligence (AI). This engine was developed in just two weeks and worked on the first try, which is a significant achievement in rocket engineering.
The process of creating the engine involved using an advanced AI model called Noyron, which autonomously designed the engine without human intervention. The engine was then 3D printed from copper. Unlike traditional design methods, which can take months or even years, using AI significantly reduced the development and production time.
Technical Specifications and Testing
The engine, named Noyron TKL-5, uses liquid oxygen and kerosene as fuel and can develop a thrust of 5 kN, equivalent to 20,000 horsepower. The first test of the engine was successfully conducted at the Airborne Engineering test site in the UK. The engine underwent both short and long tests, demonstrating stable operation and the ability to withstand the high loads and temperatures generated during rocket launch.
Advantages and Prospects
LEAP 71’s innovative approach to rocket engine design using AI has many advantages. First, it significantly accelerates the development process, allowing iterations and tests of new models to be conducted in a matter of minutes. Second, such methods allow for the creation of more complex and efficient designs that are difficult to achieve with traditional methods.
LEAP 71 co-founder and managing director, Josefin Lissner, noted: “We can automatically create functional rocket engines and move directly to practical testing. With our approach, we hope to make space more accessible to everyone” (Leap71).
Impact on the Industry
The successful development and testing of the Noyron TKL-5 engine demonstrate the potential of using AI in the space industry and could significantly influence the future of rocket engineering. This approach not only reduces costs and development time but also opens new opportunities for innovation and improving the performance of spacecraft.
More detailed information about the development can be found on LEAP 71 and other specialized resources.
