UQ welcomes report into Hyshot scramjet flight anomaly

The University of Queensland has welcomed the findings of an independent investigation into a flight anomaly of last year’s HyShot scramjet experiment.

The investigation by Neville McMartin of the Australian Transport Safety Bureau found the failure of a set of fins was the likely cause of an experimental rocket crash in the Woomera Prohibited Area last October.

This meant that The University of Queensland scramjet experiment, which was carried on the rocket, could not proceed.

University of Queensland Deputy Vice Chancellor (Research) Professor David Siddle said the investigation finding helps to clear the way for a second launch, hopefully on July 29.

"The University appreciates that cooperation between the investigation team – the Space Licensing and Safety Office (SLASO) – and the HyShot researchers will contribute to a more successful second flight," Professor Siddle said.

"The HyShot team led by Dr Allan Paull has steadily continued its work since last year with the aim of achieving the world`s first scramjet flight. The team has continued to refine the experiment."

Scramjets are air-breathing supersonic combustion ramjet engines which could revolutionise the launch of small space payloads such as communication satellites by substantially lowering costs.

The HyShot program has helped establish Australia at the forefront of hypersonic technological research.
Media: Further information, Dr Allan Paull (tel. 07 3365 3783), HyShot international program coordinator Dr Susan Anderson (tel. 0402 091365) or Jan King at UQ Communications (tel. 0413 601 248).