SABRE-powered launch system beyond 2030

A reusable hypersonic spacecraft could complement Europe’s launch capabilities beyond 2030. 

An ESA-funded study converged on a two-stage to orbit horizontally-launched vehicle powered by the Synergistic Air-Breathing Rocket Engine, or SABRE.

SABRE designed by UK-based Reaction Engines Ltd is a hybrid jet and rocket engine. Incorporating innovative precooler technology able to chill superheated air in a fraction of a second, SABRE would use oxygen from the ambient air to reach speeds up to Mach 5 up to an altitude of 25 km, after which it would shift to a closed-cycle rocket mode to continue its ascent. 

The study was carried out within the Future Launchers Preparatory Programme of ESA’s Space Transportation directorate and was completed in November 2020. Reaction Engines conducted this study supported by ArianeGroup and Bryce Space & Technology.