SpaceX’s New Rocket Fuel Could Help Us Finally Launch Humans to Mars

From the International Space Station to Mars — SpaceX is developing a new kind of rocket propellant that could push the limits of space travel further than ever before.

RP-1 had some drawbacks that are leading SpaceX scientists to look at a different propellant, which could be used specifically for Mars exploration. Enter the SpaceX Raptor engine and it’s next generation propellant.

This engine uses a combination of liquid methane and liquid oxygen to create, in my opinion, the perfect mixture for a reusable vehicle on Mars. Not only is this an efficient fuel, but we can easily create it using resources found on the Red Planet. Which is great, because one of SpaceX’s main goals is to create a system that can take humans to Mars and back.

Both methane and CO2 could be extracted from the atmosphere using solar power, and water could be mined near the surface of Mars using wells. And when compared to RP-1, methane has a higher Specific Impulse, a cooler combustion temperature, and prevents coking, or the buildup of deposits in the engine.

#spacex #mars #space #science #seeker #elements

Read More:

Why the next generation of rockets will be powered by methane
"After a century of rocket fuel research that has looked at everything from RP-1 to hydrogen to paraffin, the industry is turning to a surprising new source – methane natural gas. One of the most abundant chemicals on our planet, methane is finally enjoying the spotlight."

SpaceX Starship's Raptor engine just reached all-new power levels
"The Raptor engine uses liquid oxygen and methane, unlike the Merlin engine fueled by rocket propellant that powers the Falcon 9. That, combined with the Starship's fully-reusable design, means humans can travel to Mars, harvest the planet's resources, and use that to fuel the return trip."

First liquid-fueled rocket
"Goddard, born in Worcester, Massachusetts, in 1882, became fascinated with the idea of space travel after reading the H.G. Wells’ science fiction novel War of the Worlds in 1898."

____________________

Elements is more than just a science show. It’s your science-loving best friend, tasked with keeping you updated and interested on all the compelling, innovative and groundbreaking science happening all around us. Join our passionate hosts as they help break down and present fascinating science, from quarks to quantum theory and beyond.

Seeker empowers the curious to understand the science shaping our world. We tell award-winning stories about the natural forces and groundbreaking innovations that impact our lives, our planet, and our universe.

[WineZ]

Oh wow. A satelite engineer as a host?

Cool. Keep the content coming 👍

[dakotadad]

They have a new guy on Seeker? What’s up Kenny welcome to the show!

[kaneworthington]

"And it prevents coking"
*Hollywood left the chat*

[Vcfxae]

Glad to see another talented host and here is a small recommendation: maybe you can use a better mic for fully delivering your wonderful voice!

[childishfiend]

We like the host, he knows what he’s talking about

[xlogis]

I cant wait to see what humanity can do in next 10-20years

[wiros]

Gasoline as a rocket fuel sounds so strange. Imagine filling up your rocket at the local pump.

[jc]

After all of those comments about how seeker doesn’t have anyone who specialized in anything remotely space related, they finally got someone who is

[SafetyBriefer]

‘Using gasoline in the fuel was too dangerous, so they switched to hydrogen.’

Bruh.

[tthinker]

You are incredibly smart and simultaneously maintain the ability to explain "rocket science" to those of us who aren't at your level. Thanks!

[DS-ujbt]

Always thought this guy was pretty cool...glad they added him as part of Seeker

[AntithesisDCLXVI]

Interstellar travel?! From a chemical engine?? I think you meant interplanetary. Good vid tho. Very interesting, I had no idea we went to the moon on kerosene!

[_mikolaj_]

"New Rocket fuel"
Germans in 1930s: laughs in methalox

[TheDreiver]

Kenny smashed his first video! He's a natural! Keep up, man!

[eliyasne]

0:40
The "very fist rocket" was a fireworks rocket launched in china centuries ago. I think you ment the first liquid fueled bipropellant rocket.

[valentinpedersen]

kenny you did great! Especially for a first time, can't wait to see more engineering and space content:)

[iliketrainspwned]

"Because when considering the saftey of the crew, it's just an all-around bad idea to have an extremely volatile substance as your main propellant."

*_Glares at hypergolic engines_*

[SparkyUTAU]

Early morning seeker episode..

I like it.

[GAMEDATA]

4:00 you mean interplanetary right?
I dont think we are at the interstellar point just yet

yes I know there is voyager but those things were launched a long time ago

[NXaiUL]

0:14 Less dense is not always a desirable quality.